Crafting Creamy Delight: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making Homemade Burrata Cheese

Jun 30

Burrata cheese, with its luscious, creamy interior and delicate texture, has become a beloved favorite among cheese enthusiasts. While it may seem like a complex delicacy best left to the experts, making burrata cheese at home is a rewarding and surprisingly achievable endeavor. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of crafting your own delectable burrata cheese, allowing you to savor the creamy goodness of this Italian gem in the comfort of your own kitchen.

Gather the Ingredients

To embark on your homemade burrata cheese-making journey, you'll need a few key ingredients:

Fresh cow's milk (2 liters)
Rennet tablets (2)
Citric acid (1 teaspoon)
Non-iodized salt (1 tablespoon)
Fresh cream (250 ml)
Ice water (for chilling)

Warm the Milk

In a large, stainless-steel pot, gently heat the cow's milk over medium heat until it reaches a temperature of 37°C (98.6°F). Stir the milk occasionally to prevent scorching.

Add Citric Acid and Rennet

Dissolve the citric acid in ¼ cup of cool, non-chlorinated water. Stir the mixture into the warm milk and continue heating until the temperature reaches 40°C (104°F). Meanwhile, dissolve the rennet tablets in ¼ cup of cool water and add it to the milk, stirring gently. Allow the mixture to rest undisturbed for 15 minutes.

Cut and Cook the Curds

Using a long knife, cut the curds into 1 cm (0.4 inch) cubes. Let the curds rest for 5 minutes, and then gently stir them for another 5 minutes while maintaining the temperature at 40°C (104°F). Continue stirring intermittently for an additional 20 minutes to encourage the curds to shrink and release whey.

Shape the Mozzarella

With a slotted spoon, transfer the curds into a microwave-safe bowl, draining off as much whey as possible. Microwave the curds for 1 minute, drain off any additional whey, and then microwave for an additional 30 seconds. Carefully knead and stretch the curds, repeatedly folding and stretching until they develop a smooth, elastic texture.

Form the Burrata

Take a portion of the mozzarella and flatten it into a small disc. Place a spoonful of fresh cream in the center, and then fold the edges of the mozzarella around the cream, gently pinching and sealing to form a pouch. Shape it into a ball, ensuring the cream is securely trapped inside.

Chill and Serve

Prepare a bowl of ice water. Submerge the formed burrata in the ice water to cool and set for about 10 minutes. Once chilled, remove the burrata from the water and pat it dry with a clean towel. Your homemade burrata cheese is now ready to be savored!

Crafting your own burrata cheese at home is a delightful culinary adventure that allows you to unlock the creamy, indulgent flavors of this Italian delicacy. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you can enjoy the satisfaction of creating a homemade cheese that rivals the finest offerings from gourmet markets and restaurants. So, don your apron, gather your ingredients, and immerse yourself in the process of making your very own creamy burrata cheese—an experience that is sure to impress and delight both yourself and your lucky dining companions.