Buffalo Mozzarella

Buffalo mozzarella, known for its creamy texture and delicate, slightly tangy flavor, is a cheese made from the milk of water buffalo. It's a prized ingredient in Italian cuisine and is used in a variety of dishes. Here’s how buffalo mozzarella is commonly used in cooking:

Caprese Salad: Perhaps the most iconic use of buffalo mozzarella is in Caprese salad, where slices of the cheese are layered with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, olive oil, salt, and balsamic vinegar or glaze. This simple dish showcases the cheese’s creamy texture and mild flavor.

Pizza: Buffalo mozzarella is often used as a topping for pizza, particularly in more traditional or Neapolitan-style pizzas. It melts beautifully, providing a rich, creamy contrast to the acidic tomato sauce.

Pasta Dishes: While not typically melted into pasta sauces due to its high moisture content, buffalo mozzarella can be torn or cubed and added to pasta dishes just before serving. It’s particularly good in pasta salads or tossed with warm pasta, fresh tomatoes, basil, and olive oil.

Sandwiches and Paninis: Buffalo mozzarella can be used in sandwiches and paninis, either cold or lightly melted. Its creaminess complements a variety of ingredients, including grilled vegetables, prosciutto, and pesto.

Bruschetta and Crostini: Topped on bruschetta or crostini, buffalo mozzarella adds a soft, creamy texture that pairs well with a variety of toppings, from classic tomato and basil to roasted peppers or eggplant.

Stuffed Vegetables: Buffalo mozzarella can be used to stuff vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplants before baking, adding a creamy, cheesy filling that contrasts with the cooked vegetables.

Salads: Beyond Caprese, buffalo mozzarella can be added to a variety of green and grain salads, where its mild flavor and creamy texture can balance sharper vinaigrettes or complement other salad ingredients.

Antipasti: Served as part of an antipasti platter, buffalo mozzarella pairs well with olives, cured meats, artichokes, and roasted peppers, often drizzled with olive oil and accompanied by crusty bread.

When using buffalo mozzarella in cooking, it’s important to consider its delicate flavor and texture. It’s best added to dishes at the end of the cooking process or used in fresh preparations to preserve its qualities. Due to its high moisture content, buffalo mozzarella can release water when cooked, which should be considered when adding it to hot dishes to avoid making them soggy. For the best flavor, buffalo mozzarella should be served at room temperature, allowing its texture and taste to fully shine.