What To Know
- Ovoline cheese is made from a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, giving it a rich and complex flavor.
- Ovoline cheese offers a more complex flavor and a slightly firmer texture, while burrata cheese has a buttery and melt-in-your-mouth texture with a more pronounced tang.
- Whether you prefer the rustic charm of ovoline cheese or the creamy indulgence of burrata cheese, there is a place for both of these culinary gems on your cheese board.
Ovoline cheese, a hidden gem from the Campania region of Italy, is an artisanal delicacy that deserves a spot on any cheese connoisseur‘s platter. Its name, “ovolina,” translates to “little egg” in Italian, aptly describing its oval shape and small size.
Characteristics of Ovoline Cheese
Ovoline cheese is made from a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, giving it a rich and complex flavor. It has a soft, creamy texture with a slight acidity that balances its richness. The rind is thin and edible, adding a subtle nutty flavor.
Burrata Cheese: The Creamy Wonder
Burrata cheese, originating from the Puglia region of Italy, is a beloved culinary delight. Its name, meaning “buttered” in Italian, hints at its creamy and decadent nature.
Characteristics of Burrata Cheese
Burrata cheese is made from cow’s milk and is filled with a mixture of stracciatella and cream. The outer layer is a thin and elastic mozzarella-like casing that holds the creamy interior. Burrata has a buttery, melt-in-your-mouth texture with a slightly tangy flavor.
Ovoline Cheese vs. Burrata: The Key Differences
While both ovoline and burrata cheeses are Italian culinary wonders, there are some key differences that distinguish them:
1. Milk Type
Ovoline cheese is made from a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, while burrata cheese is made from cow’s milk. This difference in milk type contributes to their unique flavors and textures.
2. Texture
Ovoline cheese has a soft and creamy texture, but it is slightly more firm than burrata. Burrata cheese, on the other hand, has a melt-in-your-mouth texture that is incredibly creamy and decadent.
3. Flavor
Ovoline cheese has a rich and complex flavor with a slight acidity. Burrata cheese has a buttery and tangy flavor that is more pronounced.
4. Production Method
Ovoline cheese is made by hand-spinning the curd into an oval shape. Burrata cheese is made by filling a mozzarella-like casing with stracciatella and cream.
Culinary Uses
Both ovoline and burrata cheeses are versatile ingredients that can be used in a variety of culinary applications:
Ovoline Cheese
- Salads
- Antipasto platters
- Bruschetta
- Pizza
- Pasta dishes
Burrata Cheese
- Caprese salad
- Pizza
- Pasta dishes
- Bruschetta
- Salads
Which Cheese is Better?
The choice between ovoline cheese and burrata cheese ultimately depends on personal preference. Ovoline cheese offers a more complex flavor and a slightly firmer texture, while burrata cheese has a buttery and melt-in-your-mouth texture with a more pronounced tang.
Verdict: A Culinary Dilemma
Both ovoline and burrata cheeses are exceptional Italian delicacies that offer unique flavors and textures. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of ovoline cheese or the creamy indulgence of burrata cheese, there is a place for both of these culinary gems on your cheese board.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the difference between ovoline cheese and mozzarella cheese?
Ovoline cheese is made from a blend of sheep’s and goat’s milk, while mozzarella cheese is made from cow’s milk. Ovoline cheese also has a slightly firmer texture and a more complex flavor than mozzarella cheese.
2. Can I use ovoline cheese and burrata cheese interchangeably?
While both ovoline and burrata cheeses are Italian cheeses, they have different flavors and textures. Therefore, they may not be interchangeable in all culinary applications.
3. How should I store ovoline and burrata cheeses?
Both ovoline and burrata cheeses should be stored in the refrigerator. Ovoline cheese can be stored for up to 2 weeks, while burrata cheese should be consumed within a few days of purchase.
