Buffalo Mozzarella

What Is Buffalo Mozzarella?

Buffalo mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala) is a fresh cheese from southern Italy, made from the milk of water buffalo (Italian: “bufala”) using the same “pasta filata” (stretched-curd) method as mozzarella and Kashar cheese. It is sold in small balls in its own brine.

Compared with cow’s-milk mozzarella, it is softer, juicier, and creamier; a little milk seeps out when it is cut. It has a fresh, mildly tangy, milky flavor and is one of the most beloved fresh cheeses in Italian cuisine.

Buffalo Mozzarella Nutrition

Like other fresh buffalo milk cheeses, buffalo mozzarella provides approximately 280 kcal per 100 g, a good amount of protein, and relatively high fat from buffalo milk; it is rich in calcium. Values are approximate and based on a similar profile.

How Should Buffalo Mozzarella Be Eaten?

Because buffalo mozzarella is a fresh cheese, it should be eaten very fresh; use it in moderation because of its fat. For fresh cheeses, pregnant people and people with weakened immune systems should choose products made from pasteurized milk.

This is general information; buffalo mozzarella is a food and is not a substitute for medical treatment.

How to Choose Buffalo Mozzarella

Good buffalo mozzarella is bright white, glossy, elastic and juicy, with a fresh, milky aroma, and sits in its own clear brine. Yellowed pieces, sour smells, or cloudy brine are signs that it has lost its freshness.

• The color should be bright white and the texture elastic and juicy
• The brine should be clear and the aroma fresh
• Yellowing and sour odors are undesirable

How to Store Buffalo Mozzarella

Store buffalo mozzarella in the refrigerator in its own brine and consume it within a few days; cheese removed from its brine dries quickly. Bringing it to room temperature shortly before serving brings out its flavor.

Using Buffalo Mozzarella in the Kitchen

Buffalo mozzarella is most often used with tomatoes and basil in caprese salad; it is also served with fresh Neapolitan-style pizza, appetizers, and bread. Because it is delicate when heated, it is often added to pizza near the end; it tastes best fresh and uncooked.

What Is the Difference Between Buffalo Mozzarella and Cow’s-Milk Mozzarella?

Buffalo mozzarella is made from water buffalo milk; it is creamier, juicier, and has a more intense, sweet flavor. Cow’s-milk mozzarella (fior di latte) is milder and more affordable, and is used more often on pizza.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is buffalo mozzarella sold in brine?

Because it is a fresh, juicy cheese, its own mildly salted brine keeps it moist, fresh, and soft; once removed from the brine, it dries quickly.

Is buffalo mozzarella cooked?

It is best eaten fresh and uncooked; on pizza, it is heated briefly. Prolonged high heat can make it too watery and affect its fresh character.

What does buffalo mozzarella taste like?

It has a fresh, creamy, mildly tangy, milky, rich flavor; its juicy texture sets it apart from cow’s-milk mozzarella.