Stracciatella Cheese Rises From Burrata Filling to Star Attraction
Translated & summarized from Haaretz by baba
Stracciatella, a creamy cheese filling traditionally found inside burrata, has become a popular standalone cheese product. Originating in Italy's Puglia region, it's made from torn cheese strips mixed with cream. While burrata has protected status, stracciatella's lack of geographical protection has aided its global spread. It is now used in various dishes, adding richness and a unique texture.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Stracciatella cheese, once a burrata filling, is now a popular standalone product.
- It originates from Italy's Puglia region, made from torn cheese strips and cream.
- Historical evidence suggests burrata and its filling existed before the 1930s.
- Unlike burrata, stracciatella lacks protected geographical status, aiding its global spread.
- The cheese is increasingly used in modern cuisine to add richness to various dishes.
Stracciatella, a creamy cheese filling traditionally found inside burrata, is emerging as a popular standalone product in Israel and globally. Originating from the Puglia region of southern Italy, stracciatella is made from torn strips of stretched cheese (pasta filata) mixed with cream, creating a unique dual texture.
The name 'stracciatella' comes from the Italian word for 'to tear,' describing its preparation. While the name is also associated with ice cream and a clear soup, the cheese version historically arose from cheesemakers' efforts to utilize leftover mozzarella and provolone scraps. Mixing these remnants with cream transformed them into a rich, palatable product.
Legends about burrata's origin often credit cheesemaker Lorenzo Bianchino in the 1930s, who supposedly created it to preserve milk during a snowstorm. However, historical research suggests an earlier development. A 1877 cheese exhibition in Portici featured a 'burrata' containing provolone pieces in a cheese casing, though cream was not explicitly mentioned. A 1931 Italian guide also describes a burrata from the Andria region containing cream and cheese strips, indicating the concept of a filled cheese casing existed long before Bianchino.
Stracciatella began being sold separately, likely for commercial reasons, as its packaging is simpler than that of burrata. While burrata di Andria holds a Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status, stracciatella sold independently lacks this protection, allowing for production anywhere and contributing to its widespread availability but also diluting its regional connection.
In cuisine, stracciatella has moved beyond its traditional serving on rustic bread with olive oil and tomatoes. It's now used to add richness to pizzas, pastas, and risottos, and pairs well with roasted vegetables. Unexpected combinations, like with salted anchovies on bruschetta, have also gained popularity, highlighting the cheese's versatility and ability to enhance dishes without overpowering other flavors.