Mozzarella is perhaps Italy's most famous cheese. But did you know that this
formaggio fresco comes in many different shapes and forms?
A typical cheese of Campania in southern Italy, mozzarella is loved and enjoyed by many throughout the world for its soft and tangy flavors. While the classic
fior di latte variety made with fresh, whole cow's milk is the most well-known, Italy celebrates many types of mozzarella varying in shape, sizes, texture, and even flavor.
Explore all the types of mozzarella below. Then, get a taste of our housemade versions at Eataly!
TYPES OF MOZZARELLA
Say "ciao" to the family of mozzarella.
Fior di Latte Mozzarella
Meaning "flower of the milk," fior di latte mozzarella is your classic, traditional mozzarella. It's made with fresh whole cow's milk and has a sweet, light, and delicate flavor with an elastic texture. At Eataly, our resident cheesemakers make fior di latte mozzarella daily in-house with curd sourced from local dairies. Try it our cheese counter!
Mozzarella di Bufala DOP
Made with the milk of water buffalo, Mozzarella di Bufala offers a tangier and sweeter flavor than traditional fior di latte mozzarella. Thanks to its creaminess, it's highly prized as a pizza topping, but is just as good served on its own! It's often denoted with a "DOP" status, a label to show that it's made entirely in its region of origin: Campania.
Stracciatella
This sister is extremely soft and creamy! Deriving its name from the Italian word
straccia, meaning "rag" or "shred," stracciatella is created with shreds of mozzarella curds and fresh cream. It's great for spreading atop bread or even stirring into pasta. And yes, it's just as amazing as it sounds.
Burrata
Born in Puglia in a small town in the province of Bari, burrata consists of a "pouch" of stretched mozzarella cheese filled with cream-soaked stracciatella. While it consists of mozzarella parts, burrata is much richer and creamier, with a looser texture. Sprinkle with sea salt and a drizzle of olive oil to savor the full flavor.
Bocconcini
Bocconcini, meaning "small mouthfuls," are smaller, bite-sized forms of mozzarella – perfect for adding to salads or enjoying in a single bite with fresh basil and tomato. They're the cute little sisters of mozzarella!
Nodini
Formed by "knotting" mozzarella, this hand-shaped twist (literally!) on mozzarella has a smooth, shiny surface and a pleasantly firm texture. The elegant shape of these little knots makes them great for serving during festive occasions!
Now that you're an expert, pick out your favorite kind of housemade fresh mozzarella at Eataly and make your favorite dishes at home!
