Crescenza Di Bufala Cheese
Origin
Italy, Lombardy
Milk Type
water buffalo
Texture
buttery, creamy, spreadable
Flavor
buttery, creamy, mild, sweet
Aroma
fresh, pleasant, rich, sweet
Color
white
Rind
rindless
Vegetarian
Yes
Price Range
💰💰€15-30 per kg
What is Crescenza Di Bufala?
Crescenza Di Bufala is a luxurious, fresh soft cheese made from the milk of water buffalo, originating from Italy. This artisan cheese is celebrated for its creamy texture and delicate, milky flavor. It has a smooth, spreadable consistency and a pristine white appearance, making it a visually appealing addition to any cheese board. Crescenza Di Bufala is often compared to other fresh cheeses like Stracchino or Robiola, but it stands out due to its unique use of water buffalo milk, which imparts a richer and slightly tangier flavor profile. Its high moisture content and soft texture make it a versatile cheese for various culinary applications.
History of Crescenza Di Bufala
Crescenza Di Bufala has its roots in the rich cheesemaking traditions of Italy, where water buffalo milk has been used for centuries to produce distinctive dairy products like Mozzarella di Bufala. While Crescenza itself is less documented, it is part of a broader tradition of fresh, soft cheeses in Italian cuisine. These cheeses were historically made to be consumed quickly, reflecting the pastoral lifestyle of using fresh milk daily. Crescenza Di Bufala is a modern interpretation of this tradition, showcasing the unique qualities of water buffalo milk in a fresh, artisanal format.
How Crescenza Di Bufala is Made
Crescenza Di Bufala is made from fresh water buffalo milk, which is gently pasteurized to preserve its natural flavors. The milk is then curdled using natural lactic acid bacteria or a small amount of rennet. The curds are cut, drained, and placed into molds to form the cheese. Unlike aged cheeses, Crescenza Di Bufala is not pressed or aged; it is consumed fresh, typically within a few days of production. This quick turnaround ensures its creamy texture and mild flavor are at their peak.
Flavor Profile
Crescenza Di Bufala offers a delicate, milky flavor with a subtle tanginess from the water buffalo milk. Its aroma is fresh and lactic, with a hint of sweetness. The texture is luxuriously creamy and spreadable, almost like a dense yogurt or ricotta, making it a delight to eat on its own or as part of a dish.
Perfect Pairings for Crescenza Di Bufala
Crescenza Di Bufala pairs beautifully with light, crisp white wines like Pinot Grigio or Prosecco, which complement its creamy texture and mild flavor. For beer lovers, a Belgian Witbier or a light lager works well. On a cheese board, it pairs wonderfully with fresh fruits like pears or figs, honey, and crusty bread. It can also be used in salads, spread on crostini, or incorporated into pasta dishes for a creamy finish.
Nutritional Information
Fat Content
High (due to water buffalo milk)
Calcium Content
Moderate (varies by production method)
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Crescenza Di Bufala taste like?
It has a delicate, milky flavor with a slight tanginess and a creamy, spreadable texture.
How is Crescenza Di Bufala different from Mozzarella di Bufala?
While both are made from water buffalo milk, Crescenza is a fresh, soft cheese with a spreadable texture, whereas Mozzarella is firmer and often served in balls.
Can Crescenza Di Bufala be aged?
No, it is a fresh cheese meant to be consumed shortly after production.
What are some similar cheeses?
Stracchino, Robiola, and fresh Ricotta are similar in texture and flavor.
Is Crescenza Di Bufala widely available?
It is a niche cheese, primarily found in specialty cheese shops or Italian markets.