Buffalo Mozzarella
A very soft, juicy fresh Italian cheese (mozzarella di bufala) made from buffalo milk. Stored in brine; favored in salads and pizza for its fresh, creamy flavor.
What Is Buffalo Mozzarella?
Buffalo mozzarella (mozzarella di bufala) is a fresh cheese made in Southern Italy from water buffalo (Italian “bufala”) milk, using the same “pasta filata” (dough stretched in hot water) method as mozzarella and kaşar. It is sold as small balls in its own brine.
Compared to cow's milk mozzarella it is softer, juicier and creamier; when cut, a little milk runs out. It has a fresh, slightly tangy-milky taste and is one of the most beloved fresh cheeses of Italian cuisine.
Nutritional Values of Buffalo Mozzarella
Like fresh buffalo cheeses, buffalo mozzarella contains around 280 kcal of energy per 100 grams, good protein, and comparatively high fat from the buffalo milk; it is rich in calcium. Values are approximate, based on a similar profile.
How Should Buffalo Mozzarella Be Consumed?
Since buffalo mozzarella is a fresh cheese, it should be consumed very fresh; it should be used in moderation because of its fat. Among fresh cheeses, pregnant women and people with weakened immunity should prefer products made from pasteurized milk.
This information is general; buffalo mozzarella is a food, not a substitute for medical treatment.
How Is Buffalo Mozzarella Chosen?
Good buffalo mozzarella is pure white, glossy, elastic-juicy, smells fresh-milky, and sits in its own clear brine. Yellowed, sour-smelling or cloudy-brine specimens have lost their freshness.
- Color should be pure white, texture elastic-juicy
- Brine should be clear, smell fresh
- Yellowing and sour smell are undesired
How Is Buffalo Mozzarella Stored?
Buffalo mozzarella is stored in the refrigerator in its own brine and should be consumed within a few days; cheese removed from its brine dries out quickly. Bringing it to room temperature shortly before serving opens up its taste.
Using Buffalo Mozzarella in the Kitchen
Buffalo mozzarella is used mostly with tomato and basil in “caprese” salad; also on fresh (Neapolitan) pizza, in appetizers and with bread. Since it is delicate to heat, it is often added toward the end on pizza; it is at its most delicious raw and fresh.
What Is the Difference Between Buffalo Mozzarella and Cow's Milk Mozzarella?
Buffalo mozzarella is made from buffalo milk; it is creamier, juicier and more richly flavored. Cow's milk mozzarella (fior di latte) is lighter and more affordable, and is used more on pizza.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is buffalo mozzarella sold in brine?
Since it is a fresh, juicy cheese, its own lightly salted brine keeps it moist, fresh and soft; once removed from brine it dries out quickly.
Is buffalo mozzarella cooked?
It is best consumed fresh-raw; on pizza it is heated briefly. Long-high heat can make it too watery and spoil its fresh character.
What does buffalo mozzarella taste like?
It has a fresh, creamy, slightly tangy-milky and rich taste; its juicy texture sets it apart from cow's milk mozzarella.