Bocconcini vs. Burrata — What's the Difference?
By Urooj Arif & Maham Liaqat — Updated on February 26, 2024
Bocconcini are small mozzarella cheese balls, known for their mild flavor and elastic texture, while Burrata is creamy and rich, with a soft outer shell of mozzarella encasing cream and curd.
Difference Between Bocconcini and Burrata
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Bocconcini, small and semi-soft, is a type of mozzarella cheese made from cow's or water buffalo's milk, celebrated for its light, delicate flavor and moist texture. Burrata, on the other hand, takes the concept of mozzarella further by incorporating a decadent mixture of cream and stracciatella (shreds of mozzarella), creating a rich, buttery center enveloped in a smooth mozzarella casing.
Bocconcini can be enjoyed on its own or as a refreshing addition to salads, skewers, or pizzas, burrata is often served at the start of a meal, spread over bread or paired with fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil to accentuate its creamy texture and luxurious taste.
The production process of bocconcini involves curdling the milk, forming the curds into balls, and then storing them in whey or brine, maintaining a firm yet slightly springy texture. Burrata's creation requires an additional step where freshly made mozzarella is formed into a pouch, which is then filled with a lush blend of cream and mozzarella scraps, offering a unique and indulgent eating experience.
Bocconcini's appeal lies in its versatility and the ability to complement a wide array of dishes without overpowering other flavors. Burrata’s allure is its contrast between the firm outer shell and the creamy interior, making it a favorite for those seeking a rich, flavorful cheese experience.
The shelf life of bocconcini and burrata also differs; bocconcini can be kept for a longer period when stored properly in the fridge, while burrata is best consumed fresh, ideally within 24 hours of purchase, to enjoy its peak flavor and texture.
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Comparison Chart
Origin
Italy, made from cow or buffalo milk
Italy, specifically Apulia, from cow's milk
Texture
Firm, elastic
Outer shell is firm, inner is creamy and soft
Flavor
Mild, milky
Rich, buttery, with fresh cream
Use
Salads, skewers, pizzas
Appetizers, spreads, paired with tomatoes/basil
Shelf Life
Longer, can be refrigerated
Best consumed fresh, ideally within 24 hours
Compare with Definitions
Bocconcini
Small Mozzarella Cheese Balls.
Bocconcini are often used in caprese salads for their light, refreshing taste.
Burrata
Mozzarella with Creamy Center.
Cutting into burrata reveals a creamy mixture of cream and mozzarella.
Bocconcini
Elastic Texture.
Bocconcini bounce back slightly when pressed, showing their firmness.
Burrata
Outer Shell of Mozzarella.
The firm outer shell of burrata encases its soft, creamy interior.
Bocconcini
Stored in Whey or Brine.
Storing bocconcini in brine helps preserve its moisture and flavor.
Burrata
Pairs with Fresh Tomatoes and Basil.
Burrata enhances the flavors of simple ingredients like tomatoes and basil.
Bocconcini
Made from Cow or Buffalo Milk.
Bocconcini made from buffalo milk have a richer flavor.
Burrata
Best Consumed Fresh.
To enjoy its creamy texture, burrata should be eaten soon after it's made.
Bocconcini
Mild Flavor.
The mild flavor of bocconcini makes it a versatile cheese in cooking.
Burrata
Rich and Buttery Flavor.
Burrata's rich taste makes it ideal for luxurious appetizers.
Bocconcini
Bocconcini (Italian pronunciation: [bokkonˈtʃiːni]; singular bocconcino [bokkonˈtʃiːno], "small mouthful") are small mozzarella cheese balls the size of an egg. Like other mozzarellas, they are semi-soft, white, and rindless unripened mild cheeses that originated in Naples and were once made only from the milk of water buffalo.
Burrata
A fresh southern Italian cheese similar to creamy mozzarella.
Bocconcini
Small pieces of mozzarella cheese.
Burrata
Burrata (Italian pronunciation: [burˈrata]) is an Italian cow milk cheese (occasionally buffalo milk) made from mozzarella and cream. The outer casing is solid cheese, while the inside contains stracciatella and cream, giving it an unusual, soft texture.
Bocconcini
Small chunks of any suitable foodstuff.
Burrata
An Italian cheese that is shaped into a ball with a thin outer layer of mozzarella and an inner section that is a blend of fresh cream and mozzarella curd.
Common Curiosities
What is the main difference between bocconcini and burrata?
The main difference is texture and filling; bocconcini are solid cheese balls, while burrata has a creamy center.
How should bocconcini be stored?
In the fridge, submerged in whey or brine to maintain moisture.
Can bocconcini and burrata be used interchangeably in recipes?
While they can sometimes be substituted, their different textures and moisture levels can affect the dish's outcome.
Is burrata a type of mozzarella?
Yes, it's a variation of mozzarella with a creamy filling.
What is the best way to serve burrata?
Fresh, at room temperature, to fully appreciate its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Are bocconcini and burrata suitable for people with lactose intolerance?
They contain lactose, so they might not be suitable for those with severe lactose intolerance.
How can you tell if burrata is fresh?
It should have a smooth exterior and feel slightly firm but give way to pressure.
Can bocconcini be made from any type of milk?
Typically made from cow or buffalo milk, each giving a different flavor profile.
Can bocconcini be frozen for storage?
Freezing can alter its texture, making it less desirable for some dishes.
What dishes are best made with bocconcini?
Salads, pizzas, and appetizers benefit from its mild flavor and firm texture.
How is burrata's creamy center made?
By blending cream with mozzarella scraps (stracciatella) to form a rich filling.
What's the nutritional difference between bocconcini and burrata?
Burrata is higher in calories and fat due to its creamy center.
Why is burrata more expensive than bocconcini?
Its production is more labor-intensive, and it contains more expensive ingredients like cream.
Are there any vegan alternatives to bocconcini and burrata?
Yes, there are vegan cheese alternatives made from nuts or soy, mimicking their textures.
How do bocconcini and burrata contribute to a balanced diet?
They offer protein and calcium but should be consumed in moderation due to their fat content.
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Written by
Urooj ArifUrooj is a skilled content writer at Ask Difference, known for her exceptional ability to simplify complex topics into engaging and informative content. With a passion for research and a flair for clear, concise writing, she consistently delivers articles that resonate with our diverse audience.
Co-written by
Maham Liaqat
