You can find buffalo mozzarella cheese at various stores: from specialty cheese shops to grocery stores like Walmart or online retailers like Amazon. Fresh mozzarella is best, so look for it in the refrigerated section.
Introduction to Where to Buy Buffalo Mozzarella Cheese
Buffalo mozzarella is a special cheese from Italy. It’s fresh and made from water buffalo milk, giving it a unique taste. People love its soft and moist texture, especially in dishes like Caprese salad.
When it comes to buffalo mozzarella, where you get it matters a lot. Choosing a good, trustworthy source ensures the cheese keeps its unique taste.
It’s all about using water buffalo milk, sticking to traditional methods, and making sure the quality is top-notch.
Whether you’re getting it from a local market, a cheese shop, or an authentic Italian producer, going for a reliable source guarantees you’re getting the real deal. Picking buffalo mozzarella this way means you’ll enjoy its special flavor and texture to the fullest.
What is Buffalo mozzarella?
Buffalo mozzarella, also known as Mozzarella di Bufala in Italian, is a fresh cheese made from the milk of water buffalo, not cow’s milk like most mozzarella. It has a distinct taste and texture compared to regular mozzarella.
Here’s a breakdown of what makes buffalo mozzarella special:
Origin
Traditionally from Campania, Italy, particularly the provinces of Caserta and Salerno. Water buffalo are native to the wetlands of this region.
Milk
Made from the milk of Italian Mediterranean water buffalo, with a higher fat content than cow’s milk. This contributes to a richer, creamier texture.
Texture
Buffalo mozzarella is softer, more elastic, and has a melt-in-your-mouth quality compared to cow milk mozzarella. It often retains some liquid in the center, similar to burrata cheese.
Flavor
Buffalo mozzarella has a slightly tangy flavor that’s considered more complex than regular mozzarella.
Certification
The true stuff, Mozzarella di Bufala Campana, has a protected designation of origin (PDO) in the European Union, ensuring it meets strict quality standards.
Overall, buffalo mozzarella is a luxurious cheese prized for its rich taste and unique texture. It’s often enjoyed fresh, on its own, with tomatoes and basil, or in dishes like Caprese salad.
Where to Find Buffalo Mozzarella?
Finding high-quality buffalo mozzarella can elevate your pizzas, salads, and caprese dishes. Here are the best places to look:
Specialty Cheese Shops
These shops are your best bet for finding the freshest, most flavorful buffalo mozzarella.
They typically source their cheese from small, artisanal producers in Italy and will have a knowledgeable staff who can help you choose the perfect cheese for your needs.
Many specialty cheese shops also offer cheese tastings, so you can try before you buy.
Services offered
- Wide selection of buffalo mozzarella from different regions of Italy
- Recommendations based on your taste and intended use Cheese storage tips
Italian Grocers
Italian grocers are another good option for finding fresh buffalo mozzarella. They may not have the same selection as a specialty cheese shop, but they will likely carry a few different varieties.
Online Retailers
You can also find buffalo mozzarella online, but it’s important to be careful when choosing a retailer. Make sure the retailer has a good reputation and that they ship cheese properly to ensure it arrives fresh.
Here are some factors to consider when buying buffalo mozzarella online:
- Reputation of the retailer: Read reviews from other customers before you buy.
- Shipping: The cheese should be shipped in a cool, insulated container with ice packs.
Additional Tips
- Look for buffalo mozzarella that is DOP-certified (Denominazione di Origine Protetta). This means that the cheese has been produced in a specific region of Italy according to traditional methods.
- Buffalo mozzarella should be stored in its original packaging in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to a week.
- Buffalo mozzarella is best enjoyed at room temperature. Take it out of the refrigerator about 30 minutes before you plan to eat it.
How to Choose the best Buffalo Mozzarella?
Buffalo mozzarella takes your dish from ordinary to extraordinary, but freshness and quality are key. Here’s how to Choose the cheese aisle like a pro:
Freshness is King
- Flavor and Texture: Fresh buffalo mozzarella boasts a milky, sweet taste with a hint of grassiness. The texture is soft, elastic, and should tear slightly when pulled. Avoid mozzarella that’s rubbery or crumbly.
- Signs of Freshness: Look for a pearly white color with a milky white liquid surrounding the cheese. This liquid, called latticello, is a sign of freshness.
Milk Matters
Cow vs. Buffalo: Buffalo milk mozzarella (Mozzarella di Bufala) is considered superior. It has a richer, creamier taste with a slightly higher butterfat content than cow milk mozzarella. Buffalo mozzarella also has a subtler sweetness and a hint of nuttiness.
Fat Content
Opt for whole-milk mozzarella for the most desirable flavor and texture. Part-skim mozzarella can be drier and less flavorful.
Aroma and Flavor Profile
- Mild Aroma: A high-quality buffalo mozzarella should have a mild, milky aroma. It should not exhibit any sour or off-putting smells.
- Taste Test: If possible, taste a small piece before purchasing. The flavor should be delicate, slightly tangy, and characteristic of buffalo milk.
- Consistency Across the Cheese: The flavor and aroma should be consistent throughout the entire cheese, with no pockets of unpleasant odors or flavors.
Packaging and Labeling
Packaging Integrity: Check the package for any tears, spills, or open seals. Proper packaging helps maintain the freshness and quality of the buffalo mozzarella.
Label Information: Read the label for information on the producer, location, and any certifications. It should also specify whether the cheese is made from 100% buffalo milk.
Storage Instructions: Check for any recommended storage instructions. Buffalo mozzarella is best stored in a cool environment, often submerged in its own brine or water.
DOP: A Seal of Quality
Look for the DOP (Denominazione di Origine Protetta) certification on your buffalo mozzarella. This prestigious designation guarantees that the cheese:
- Comes from specific regions in Italy (Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Molise)
- Is made with buffalo milk only using traditional methods
- Meets strict quality standards
- DOP mozzarella is generally more expensive, but it ensures you’re getting authentic, top-notch buffalo mozzarella.
How to Store and Use Buffalo Mozzarella in Storage?
Buffalo mozzarella is a delicious cheese, but it has a shorter shelf life than some others. Here’s how to store it for best results and enjoy its full potential:
Storage
Keep it fresh: Buffalo mozzarella is at its peak when stored in its original packaging, submerged in the brine. This helps maintain its moisture and delicate texture.
Refrigerate it: Store the mozzarella in the refrigerator, ideally between 34 and 40°F (1 and 4°C). Avoid the coldest part of the fridge, like the back or crisper drawer.
Using Buffalo Mozzarella
Room Temperature is Key: For the best flavor and texture, take the mozzarella out of the fridge about 30 minutes before using it. This allows it to soften slightly and develop its full flavor.
Dishes to Savor: Buffalo mozzarella shines in dishes like:
Caprese Salad: Sliced fresh mozzarella with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, olive oil, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
Pizza: Top your pizza with buffalo mozzarella for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth experience.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure your buffalo mozzarella is stored properly and ready to elevate your culinary creations.
FAQs
Where can I buy buffalo mozzarella cheese locally?
You can find buffalo mozzarella at local farmers’ markets, specialty grocery stores, and gourmet food shops.
Are there online retailers that sell high-quality buffalo mozzarella?
Yes, several online retailers specialize in high-quality cheeses and offer a variety of buffalo mozzarella options.
Can I purchase buffalo mozzarella directly from buffalo dairy farms?
Some buffalo dairy farms may sell their products directly to consumers either on-site or through shipping services.
Are there specific regions known for producing the best buffalo mozzarella?
Yes, regions in Italy, particularly Campania around Naples, are renowned for producing some of the best and most authentic buffalo mozzarella.
How can I ensure the buffalo mozzarella is fresh when buying online?
Read customer reviews, check shipping policies, and buy from reputable online retailers to ensure the cheese arrives fresh and in optimal condition.
Is there a seasonal variation in buffalo mozzarella availability?
Yes, buffalo mozzarella production is often seasonal, with peak availability during the spring and summer months.
Do buffalo mozzarella varieties have Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) status?
Yes, some buffalo mozzarella varieties may have PDO status, indicating adherence to specific production standards and regional authenticity.
What should I look for when checking the packaging of buffalo mozzarella?
Ensure the packaging is intact, without any damage or leaks. Proper packaging helps maintain the freshness and quality of the cheese.
Can I get recommendations for buffalo mozzarella from cheese experts?
Yes, consult cheese mongers at specialty stores or join online communities where enthusiasts share recommendations and experiences.
Are there any classic dishes that highlight the flavor of buffalo mozzarella?
Yes, classic dishes include Caprese salad, Margherita pizza, and Insalata di Mozzarella e Prosciutto, showcasing the cheese’s unique qualities.
Conclusion
For the ultimate mozzarella experience, remember these key points: prioritize freshness, consider milk type and certification (DOP), and choose your retailer wisely.
Specialty cheese shops and Italian grocers are your best bets, while online options require research. Store buffalo mozzarella in its brine and enjoy it at room temperature to savor its full flavor and texture.
Now that you’re armed with this buffalo mozzarella buying guide, there’s nothing stopping you from elevating your dishes! So, go forth and indulge in the delightful taste of authentic buffalo mozzarella.
