Burrata, the Italian cheese that has captured the hearts of many with its creamy, mozzarella-like center and delicate, shredded stracciatella exterior. However, as with any dairy product, burrata has a limited shelf life, and it’s not uncommon to find yourself with an old, leftover ball of this delicious cheese. But fear not, dear foodies, for we’re about to explore the various creative ways to repurpose old burrata, breathing new life into this Italian delight.
Understanding Burrata’s Shelf Life
Before we dive into the creative uses of old burrata, it’s essential to understand its shelf life. Typically, burrata can last for 7-10 days when stored properly in the refrigerator. However, its quality and freshness may degrade over time, affecting its texture and flavor. If you notice any visible signs of mold, sliminess, or an off smell, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard the burrata.
Signs of Old Burrata
So, how do you know if your burrata has gone bad? Here are some telltale signs:
- A sour or unpleasant smell
- Visible mold or white powdery patches
- Slimy or soft texture
- Rancid or sour taste
If your burrata exhibits any of these signs, it’s best to discard it and purchase a fresh one. However, if it’s still within its shelf life but no longer suitable for serving as a standalone cheese, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered.
Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Burrata
Now that we’ve established the shelf life and signs of old burrata, let’s explore the various creative ways to repurpose this delicious cheese.
1. Burrata Fritters
Transform old burrata into crispy, cheesy fritters that are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Simply crumble the burrata into a bowl, add some chopped parsley, basil, or dill, and mix well. Then, shape the mixture into small balls, coat with breadcrumbs, and fry until golden brown.
2. Cheesy Pasta Bake
Add a creamy twist to your pasta bake by incorporating old burrata into the sauce. Simply blend the burrata with some grated Parmesan, chopped parsley, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Then, mix the sauce with cooked pasta, transfer to a baking dish, and top with more grated cheese and breadcrumbs. Bake until golden and bubbly.
3. Burrata Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Elevate your chicken breasts by stuffing them with a creamy burrata filling. Simply crumble the burrata into a bowl, add some chopped parsley, basil, or dill, and mix well. Then, lay chicken breasts flat, make a horizontal incision to create a pocket, and fill with the burrata mixture. Bake or grill until cooked through.
4. Cheesy Pizza Topping
Add a creamy, cheesy element to your pizza by using old burrata as a topping. Simply crumble the burrata into small pieces and scatter over your pizza dough, along with your favorite toppings. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
5. Burrata and Tomato Salad
Create a simple yet delicious salad by combining old burrata with fresh tomatoes and basil. Simply crumble the burrata into a bowl, add diced tomatoes and chopped basil, and drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
6. Cheesy Soup
Add a creamy element to your soups by incorporating old burrata into the broth. Simply blend the burrata with some chicken or vegetable broth, along with your favorite vegetables and spices. Then, simmer until the soup is hot and the cheese is melted and creamy.
7. Burrata and Spinach Quiche
Elevate your quiche game by adding old burrata to the filling. Simply crumble the burrata into a bowl, add chopped spinach, grated cheese, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Then, mix the filling with beaten eggs and pour into a pre-baked pie crust. Bake until the quiche is set and golden brown.
8. Cheesy Dip
Transform old burrata into a creamy, cheesy dip perfect for snacking or entertaining. Simply blend the burrata with some sour cream or Greek yogurt, along with your favorite herbs and spices. Then, serve with crackers, chips, or vegetables.
9. Burrata and Prosciutto Pizza Pinwheels
Create a delicious and easy-to-make appetizer by combining old burrata with prosciutto and pizza dough. Simply crumble the burrata into a bowl, add chopped prosciutto and a pinch of salt and pepper. Then, spread the mixture onto pizza dough, roll up, and slice into pinwheels. Bake until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Cheesy Croquettes
Transform old burrata into crispy, cheesy croquettes that are perfect as an appetizer or snack. Simply crumble the burrata into a bowl, add some chopped parsley, basil, or dill, and mix well. Then, shape the mixture into small balls, coat with breadcrumbs, and fry until golden brown.
Conclusion
Old burrata may no longer be suitable for serving as a standalone cheese, but it can still be repurposed into a variety of delicious dishes. From cheesy pasta bakes to creamy dips, the possibilities are endless. So next time you find yourself with leftover burrata, don’t discard it – get creative and breathe new life into this Italian delight.
What is Burrata and How Does it Differ from Other Cheeses?
Burrata is a type of Italian cheese that originated in the region of Puglia. It is a ball of mozzarella filled with a creamy mixture of stracciatella, which is a type of shredded mozzarella, and cream. This unique composition sets burrata apart from other cheeses, making it a popular choice for many Italian dishes.
The creamy center of burrata is what makes it so special. When you cut into a ball of burrata, the stracciatella and cream mixture spills out, creating a rich and indulgent experience. This is why burrata is often served as an antipasto or used as a topping for pasta dishes and pizzas.
How Do I Know if My Burrata is Still Good to Use?
To determine if your burrata is still good to use, you should check its appearance, smell, and texture. Fresh burrata should have a smooth, shiny exterior and a creamy white interior. If the exterior is dry, cracked, or moldy, it’s best to err on the side of caution and discard it.
In terms of smell, fresh burrata should have a mild, slightly sweet aroma. If it smells strongly of ammonia or has a sour odor, it’s likely gone bad. Finally, the texture of the stracciatella and cream mixture should be smooth and creamy. If it’s separated, grainy, or has an unpleasant sliminess, it’s best to discard the burrata.
What are Some Creative Ways to Repurpose Old Burrata?
There are many creative ways to repurpose old burrata, even if it’s no longer fresh enough to serve on its own. One idea is to use it as a topping for pizza or pasta dishes. Simply slice the burrata into thin pieces and scatter it over your favorite recipe. You can also use old burrata to make a creamy sauce by blending it with some olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
Another idea is to use old burrata as a dip for vegetables or crackers. Simply blend the stracciatella and cream mixture with some lemon juice and olive oil, and serve it with your favorite dippers. You can also use old burrata to make a creamy soup or stew by blending it with some chicken or vegetable broth.
Can I Freeze Burrata to Extend its Shelf Life?
Yes, you can freeze burrata to extend its shelf life. However, it’s worth noting that freezing can affect the texture and consistency of the cheese. When you freeze burrata, the stracciatella and cream mixture can separate, resulting in a slightly grainy texture when thawed.
To freeze burrata, simply wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen burrata is best used in cooked dishes, such as pasta sauces or soups, where the texture won’t be as noticeable. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw the burrata in the refrigerator or at room temperature.
How Do I Make a Burrata Sauce for Pasta?
To make a burrata sauce for pasta, you’ll need some old burrata, olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Simply blend the stracciatella and cream mixture with some olive oil, minced garlic, and chopped herbs, such as parsley or basil. You can also add some grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
To use the burrata sauce, simply toss it with some cooked pasta, such as spaghetti or linguine, and top with some extra Parmesan cheese and parsley. You can also add some protein, such as cooked chicken or shrimp, to make the dish more substantial.
Can I Use Burrata in Baked Dishes?
Yes, you can use burrata in baked dishes, such as casseroles or quiches. The creamy texture of the stracciatella and cream mixture makes it a great addition to many baked recipes. Simply slice the burrata into thin pieces and scatter it over the top of the dish before baking.
When using burrata in baked dishes, it’s worth noting that the cheese can melt and spread during cooking. To prevent this, you can wrap the burrata in foil or parchment paper before baking, or use a higher oven temperature to melt the cheese more quickly.
What are Some Other Italian Cheeses I Can Use as a Substitute for Burrata?
If you can’t find burrata or prefer not to use it, there are several other Italian cheeses you can use as a substitute. One option is mozzarella, which has a similar texture to burrata but lacks the creamy center. You can also use ricotta cheese, which has a creamy texture but is often more dense than burrata.
Another option is stracciatella cheese, which is the same type of shredded mozzarella used in burrata. You can use stracciatella on its own or mix it with some cream to create a similar texture to burrata. Finally, you can use mascarpone cheese, which has a rich, creamy texture but is often more expensive than burrata.