What Is Burrata Cheese Complete Guide

Burrata cheese is a fresh Italian cheese with a thin mozzarella shell bursting into a pool of creamy stracciatella. It feels like biting into a soft pillow, where the gentle exterior gives way to a decadent, melting center. In this section, you’ll uncover everything you need to know about burrata.

Discover What Is Burrata Cheese

What Is IFM Gourmet Dubai?

IFM Gourmet Dubai is the luxury online gourmet arm of IFM Investments LLC, a culinary-focused company based in the UAE. Their gourmet store offers an impressive lineup of artisanal delicacies, including sweets, savories, fine chocolates, premium teas, cakes, and beautifully curated gift hampers. They are part of the broader Italian Food Masters group and are known for quality, authenticity, and culinary elegance in Dubai’s gourmet scene.

This indulgent cheese hails from Apulia in southern Italy and carries centuries of farmhouse ingenuity. Its name traces back to burro, Italian for butter, a nod to its luxuriously rich heart. Expert cheesemakers mastered that contrast between a springy shell and a lavish interior.

• Italian Origins and artisan production steps

• Flavor Profiles and sensory textures

• Serving & Pairing Ideas with IFM Gourmet Dubai’s handpicked delicacies

• Storage & Shelf-Life best practices and 48-hour refrigerated guidance

• Buying Tips and authenticity checks in the UAE

Burrata strikes the perfect balance between a delicate outer shell and a flowing creamy heart.

Keep reading to explore origins, textures, recipes and expert tips that bring burrata’s creamy magic to your table.

Burrata Cheese at a Glance

Below is a handy reference table to help you spot the key attributes of burrata at a glance.

Attribute	Details
Origin	Apulia region of Italy
Texture	Thin mozzarella shell, creamy interior
Flavor	Mild, milky sweetness
Ideal Dishes	Salads, bruschetta, pizzas
Shelf Life	48 hours refrigerated

This guide will help you master each aspect, from selecting authentic PDO-labelled burrata to perfect presentation.

Next up, uncover the Apulian roots that made burrata a beloved classic.

Enjoy this delicious journey.

Origins And History Of Burrata Cheese

On the sun-drenched pastures of Apulia in southern Italy, resourceful farmhands looked for ways to honour every curd. What they stumbled upon was pure magic: fresh mozzarella trimmings folded into rich cream to create a soft, billowy centre, reminiscent of cutting into a silk pillow.

Over the late 1800s, local artisans polished this technique. They refined their touch, swapping tips between neighbouring villages until burrata became more than a clever use of scraps—it was a symbol of Apulian pride and hospitality.

Key Characteristics:

• Crafted from mozzarella remnants and fresh cream

• Wrapped in a delicate pasta filata shell

• Served immediately for peak softness

For centuries, Italian families laid burrata on rustic wooden boards, drizzling it with vine-ripened tomatoes, olive oil, and a sprinkle of sea salt. Word of its silky heart spread north, landing it on tables in Rome and Milan as chefs fell under its melting spell.

By the early 2010s, global fascination with burrata grew at 5.6% annually, flowing into the Middle East and Africa. As of 2024, the MEA cheese market topped USD 4.95 billion, with burrata projected to hit USD 6.45 billion by 2033 at a 2.98% CAGR. Discover the full insights in this 360iResearch Burrata Cheese Intelligence.

Regional Adaptation In Middle East And Africa

In the UAE, forward-thinking chefs have found endless pairings for burrata. Local dates and premium olive oils balance its creaminess, while crisp flatbreads and vibrant salads put its soft centre in the spotlight.

Beyond the Emirates, creative kitchens from Saudi Arabia to South Africa and Israel to Egypt have added local flair:

• Spiced olive oils at Jeddah’s seaside bistros

• Herb-infused burrata in Tel Aviv markets

• Gourmet meat platters on Cape Town rooftops

• Honey-drizzled variations in Cairo’s chic cafes

“Burrata’s journey shows how a humble farmhouse cheese can blossom into a global delicacy, weaving tradition and modern tastes.”

From village tables in Apulia to gourmet hotspots worldwide, burrata’s soft shell and creamy core continue to inspire chefs and diners alike. Each new pairing writes another chapter in its ongoing story, celebrating both its rustic roots and modern allure.

How Burrata Cheese Is Made

Fresh whole milk kickstarts the magic. We always choose farm-fresh milk from trusted dairies—it’s non-negotiable.

Once in the cheese kitchen, the milk is warmed to 37°C. Then a touch of rennet coaxes it into delicate curds. This gentle transformation preserves that lush, creamy profile.

Forming The Curds

After the curds have set, our cheesemakers:

• Cut them carefully to release whey

• Stir just enough to build structure

• Drain off the liquid, leaving behind pliable curds

Next comes the pasta filata move. Picture curds dancing in hot water until they feel as stretchable as warm taffy. We pull and fold repeatedly, weaving a silky network for the shell.

Preparing The Filling

Here’s where burrata truly shines: the stracciatella filling. We shred excess mozzarella into fine strands, then fold in fresh cream until the mix is opulent. Imagine a handful of cheese ribbons swooning in a pool of double cream—that’s the heart of burrata.

Sealing it up is a skilled act:

• Spoon the velvety filling into a pouch of stretched curd

• Pinch the edges with gentle fingers

• Aim for a smooth seam as a sign of top-notch craftsmanship

A clean joint means each bite will burst with creamy goodness. Then, a quick rest in cool water firms the shell and locks in moisture, leaving you with a plump, joyful cheese.

This graphic lays out burrata’s path from Apulia’s farms to gourmet plates around the globe. Spot the key stages—origin, cream blending, and worldwide rise—and you’ll see how this unassuming farmhouse cheese won hearts everywhere.

Quality Pointers For Home Cheesemakers

Ready to make burrata in your own kitchen? Keep these in mind:

• Start with the freshest milk and pure cream—no ultra-pasteurised shortcuts

• Heat water to 70°C–80°C for stretching: too hot scalds, too cool won’t give you elasticity

• Store your finished burrata in lightly salted water at 4°C to keep the shell supple

• Enjoy within 24–48 Hours for peak freshness

"High-quality milk and precise temperature control are essential to burrata's silky texture," says artisanal cheesemaker Marta Rossi.

For top-tier ingredients in Dubai, head to IFM Gourmet Food Store. Their dairy selection makes every step of your cheesemaking journey smoother.

Taste Texture And Varieties Of Burrata

Picture a wafer-thin casing that trembles under your fingertips like a soap bubble. With a gentle slice, it gives way to a flood of creamy richness—silky, cool, and utterly indulgent. That moment of release is what makes burrata so unforgettable.

Cow milk burrata brings a mild, milk-sweet note to the table. Buffalo milk burrata, thanks to its higher fat content, unfolds with deeper tang and a luxuriously rich body. Choosing one over the other can turn the same salad from softly nuanced to boldly decadent.

Cow And Buffalo Milk Differences

• Cow Milk Burrata: lighter shell, gentle sweetness

• Buffalo Milk Burrata: sturdier casing, pronounced tang

• Shell Thickness and Creaminess shift depending on milk origin

The milk you start with sets the tone for every topping and pairing.

Shell And Filling Interaction

Burrata’s magic lies in the dance between its outer layer and its silky interior. A slight give in the shell lets you coax out that velvety core in a controlled cascade. Some chefs even make shallow cuts to direct the flow, turning presentation into a performance.

When smoke enters the equation, the interplay changes. Cold-smoking wraps the cheese in subtle warmth—wood-fire aromas that play beautifully against the mild, dairy sweetness. On a rustic flatbread or a charcuterie board, this smoked burrata becomes the star.

Infused And Regional Twists

Experimentation is part of burrata’s charm. Chefs are infusing new flavours all the time:

1. Truffle-Edged Burrata for gourmet pizzas

2. Herb-Infused Burrata tossed in olive oil

3. Smoked Burrata served on charcuterie boards

Here’s a handy comparison of the main burrata styles you’ll find:

Comparison Of Burrata Varieties

Variety	Shell Type	Filling	Texture	Best Use
Classic Cow Milk	Thin	Light cream	Silky	Salads and bruschetta
Buffalo Milk	Moderate	Rich cream	Dense	Pasta and risotto
Truffle Infused	Thin	Earthy cream	Smooth	Pizza and crostini
Rosemary Infused	Moderate	Herbed cream	Slightly grainy	Grilled veg and sourdough
Dessert Style	Very thin	Sweetened cream	Ultra creamy	Honey and fresh fruit

Whether you’re building a simple bruschetta or an elaborate risotto, there’s a burrata style for every occasion.

In the UAE, you’ll see dessert-style burrata drizzled with honey and dotted with pomegranate arils—sweet meets savory in every bite. Seasonal spins might feature saffron strands or a sprinkle of za’atar, grounding this Italian classic in local taste.

You might also enjoy our guide on pasta pairings with burrata.

Burrata’s endless variations invite playful experimentation in any kitchen.

Serving Pairing And Recipe Ideas With IFM Gourmet Dubai Products

Burrata feels like a soft pillow of cream begging to be paired with bold, contrasting flavours. At IFM Gourmet Dubai, we’ve selected artisanal ingredients that bring out its velvety core. These recipes guide you step by step, so every home cook in the UAE can plate dishes that look—and taste—effortlessly elegant.

Burrata And Emirati Date Salad

This salad is a balance of sweet and creamy, a dance between luscious burrata and sun-kissed Emirati dates.

• 2 burrata balls, torn for a rustic texture

• Handful of halved Emirati dates, each one bursting with sweetness

• Drizzle of IFM Gourmet Dubai extra virgin olive oil for fruity depth

• Pinch of flaked sea salt and cracked black pepper to sharpen every bite

• A scattering of microgreens or mint leaves to lift the aroma

Gently toss on a warmed platter to keep the cheese luxuriously soft. Pair with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a soothing chamomile herbal tea for a refreshing contrast.

Gourmet Bruschetta Board With Fine Teas

Think of this bruschetta board as a blank canvas that transforms into a feast of colours and tastes.

• Slice IFM Gourmet Dubai artisanal breads—sourdough or focaccia work beautifully

• Spread generous dollops of sun-dried tomato jam to cut through the creaminess

• Crown each slice with a chunk of burrata, letting it ooze naturally

• Garnish with freshly chopped basil and a light drizzle of balsamic vinegar

• Serve alongside IFM’s fine teas, such as Earl Grey or Jasmine, whose tannins tame the cheese’s richness

A shared platter like this turns any gathering into a memorable moment.

Indulgent Dessert With Honey And Signature Chocolates

For a sweet finish that feels indulgent without fuss, let burrata wow you again.

• Place a scoop of cream-filled burrata at the centre of a small plate

• Drizzle with sticky UAE golden honey for a glistening effect

• Scatter shavings or broken chunks of IFM Gourmet Dubai dark chocolate over the top

• Sprinkle toasted pistachios or almond flakes to introduce a satisfying crunch

• Finish with a few edible rose petals for a flourish

Serve with a glass of sweet Port or a delicate mint tea to round off the flavours.

Enjoying dishes like these reflects how burrata has been carving out its place across the Middle East and Africa. In 2024, the MEA cheese market was valued at USD 4.95 billion, and it’s set to climb to USD 6.45 billion by 2033—Learn more about MEA cheese market growth.

“Pairing burrata with local flavours brings its creamy core to life,” says a Dubai-based chef at IFM Gourmet Dubai.

You might be interested in our pizza pairing inspiration gallery: Deluxe Burrata Pizza Ideas

Whether it’s a laid-back brunch or a sophisticated dinner, these ideas invite burrata’s pillow-like shell and creamy heart into every menu.

Discover IFM Gourmet Dubai’s curated hampers, perfect for celebrations and corporate gifting. Each hamper showcases artisanal treats, premium teas, and handcrafted chocolates to leave a lasting impression.

Storage Shelf Life And Buying Tips

Storing burrata is simple. Aim for 2–4°C and keep it in its original, sealed container—the coldest corner of your fridge is best.

Humidity is the secret to avoiding a dry case. Nestle your burrata in a covered drawer or loose box with a damp cloth to mimic its ideal environment.

Freezing might seem tempting, but it disrupts that tender, creamy heart. Instead, fold slightly older burrata into warm dishes before it passes its prime.

• Baked pasta with torn burrata for an oozy centre

• Flatbread finished with burrata and seasonal vegetables

Humidity Control And Freezing Guidance

Think of your vegetable drawer as a mini cheese cave. Maintain 85–90% humidity with a lightly damp cloth to prevent the outer shell from stiffening.

Freezing grants extra time, yet ice crystals will form in the stracciatella. Once thawed, reserve this burrata for melting into sauces or bubbling gratins rather than fresh platters.

Proper fridge placement and moisture retention are crucial to keep burrata fresh.

When it softens, transform aged burrata into rich casseroles or savoury tarts for an added depth of flavour.

Buying Burrata In The UAE

Authenticity often wears a PDO seal or carries an organic badge—look for these markers in your local market.

IFM Gourmet Dubai stocks true Italian burrata alongside gourmet hampers designed for every celebration.

Keep an eye on per-ball pricing, especially during Ramadan and Eid promotions. And always verify the cold-chain: firm seals and a fully chilled delivery make all the difference.

Delving into numbers, the Middle East and Africa burrata market is on track for robust growth through 2032. Starting from 2024 baselines, revenues by type—fresh versus flavoured—are expected to climb into the millions, while volume reaches thousands of kilos across retail, foodservice and hospitality. Discover more insights about the burrata cheese market forecast here

• Check PDO seal for origin

• Verify cold-chain integrity

• Choose organic or grass-fed milk

• Buy from trusted purveyors like IFM Gourmet Dubai

This snapshot highlights IFM’s commitment to quality—from artisanal cheeses to premium teas and curated gift hampers.

Consume burrata within 48 hours of opening to savour every silky, creamy burst.

FAQ

What Makes Burrata Different From Mozzarella?Picture slicing into a soft pillow only to find a pool of creamy stracciatella inside. That’s burrata. Mozzarella, on the other hand, stays uniform—no surprise center, just consistent, mild cheese.

How Long Can You Store Burrata Before It Loses Its Signature Texture?Unopened burrata will stay fresh for up to 48 hours when kept in its brine at 2–4 °C. After you open it, plan to enjoy it within 24 hours for that peak creaminess. Check the seal and brine level at IFM Gourmet Dubai—keeping it submerged is key.

Freezing And Texture Tips

Can You Freeze Burrata Without Spoiling Its Creaminess?Burrata and deep-freeze don’t mix well. Ice crystals form and shred the silky strands inside. Thawed burrata shines in sauces or warm dishes rather than served raw.

Freezing should be a last resort to maintain that signature creamy burst.

• Store in an airtight bag to prevent freezer burn

• Thaw slowly in the fridge at 2–4 °C

• Use thawed burrata in baked dishes or pasta

• Seal each portion in vacuum packs for best preservation

Beverage Pairing Table

Drink Type	Recommended Example
White Wine	Sauvignon Blanc
Sparkling	Prosecco
Herbal Tea	Jasmine Green, Earl Grey

Adjust serving temperatures: slightly chill wines and steep teas for 3–5 minutes to bring out those subtle cheese notes.

Ready to explore premium Italian ingredients and discover your perfect burrata pairing? Shop now and elevate your cheese experience at IFM Gourmet Food Store.