October 06 2022 – That's Amore Cheese
Buffalo Mozzarella: Queen of Cheese
Mozzarella di Bufala (Buffalo Mozzarella) is a stretched curd cheese made from buffalo milk, originally from southern Italy, specifically in the Campania Region. It is often called the Queen of Mediterranean cuisine ('Regina della cucina mediterranea') and is an extremely versatile cheese. The name originates from the Italian verb 'mozzare' which means to tear and refers to the methods used by cheesemakers to create the different sizes and shapes of the cheese.
The difference between these two types of mozzarella mainly lie in the difference between the milk of cows and buffalo. While they both have healthy amounts of vitamins and minerals, buffalo milk is lower in cholesterol, has more protein and is higher in fat content, which gives it a creamier consistency than cow milk. The mozzarella made from buffalo milk has a slightly sour and tangy taste in comparison to the sweetness of mozzarella made from cow milk.
Where did buffalo mozzarella originate?
There are different theories regarding the origins of buffalo mozzarella as it is a much older cheese than the rest of its family. One theory traces back to the Middle Ages when the people of this region introduced water buffalo into southern Italy. In the 13th century, famers in Campania were making cheese from buffalo milk, mainly due to it being a cheaper alternative to cow or goat's milk cheese at the time. Even with all these theories, the one thing that everyone can agree on is that finally product is to die for!
Buffalo mozzarella is made using a technique that involves heating and stretching the curd so that it becomes elastic and easy to shape with hands. Like most cheese, only a few ingredients are needed: buffalo milk, rennet, salt and citric acid. Mozzarella has different shapes such as Perline, Ciliegini and Bocconcini (at That's Amore Cheese we call them Baby Bocconcini and Cherry Bocconcini).
While our cow milk is from the Gippsland region, the buffalo milk we use for some of our cheeses comes from Echuca, a town on the banks fo the Murray River, located in Northern Victoria.
Buffalo mozzarella is light and fresh, therefore the best way to indulge in the taste is with fresh tomatoes and a drizzle of your best olive oil. Buffalo mozzarella is incredibly versatile and can be eaten in a salad, pizza, pasta and much more!
We have put together some buffalo mozzarella ideas:
Planning a trip to Italy?
Caserta and Salerno are two cities in the region of Campania that buffalo mozzarella originates from and has a lot to offer for travellers in the area. Many people would be aware of the Amalfi Coast, Napoli, Sorrento and Capri but there are other hidden gems that are well worth the visit. Other places you might want to add to your list are Reggia de Caserta, Minerva's Garden and the Salerno Cathedral.
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