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BURRATA
    This deliciously creamy cheese, pronounced boor-RAH-tah, is a specialty of Southern Italy, especially the regions of Aupulia, Campania, and Basilicata.  Burrata was invented in Andria at the beginning of the 20th century.  Traditionally made from buffalo's milk, today most Burrata is made from cow's milk. 
   Classified as a "spun" or "pulled curd" cheese, Burrata's uniqueness lies in the buttery texture of the cheese's center: "burro" means butter in Italian.  The outside of these decadent balls is a wrapped skin made from stretched sheets of mozzarella.  This gives the exterior a soft, springy texture.  The soft, buttery center is made from fresh cream and unspun mozzarella curds.  When you bite or cut into Burrata, the cream oozes out irresistibly. 
    Burrata is highly perishable and should be eaten as soon as possible after purchase.  It will keep for only a few days in the refrigerator.  You will find Burrata wrapped in the protective leaves of asfodelo, which is an herb-like plant similar to leeks.  The leaves will indicate the freshness of the cheese; as long as the outer wrapping stays green the cheese within is till fresh.
    Serve Burrata paired with fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.  Its marvelous liquid center can be scooped up with slices of crusty bread and accompanied by a bottle of wine.  Try tossing Burrata in pasta or serving on a fresh green salad. 
    Extremely hard to find because of its short shelf life, Burrata must be flown in from Italy the day after it is made and quickly sold to consumers.  Once a challenge to find in the US, Burrata has recently become more widely available, as it is being distributed domestically by an Italian cheese producer in southern California. It has recently become a "hot"gourmet item in places like New York City and Beverly Hills.
Many recognize Burrata as one of the best fresh cheeses in the world.
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