Crispy Fried Burrata with Balsamic Marinated Tomatoes is a gourmet delight that combines the creamy, rich burrata cheese with the tangy, sweet balsamic-marinated tomatoes. The crisp, golden exterior of the fried burrata contrasts beautifully with its soft, buttery interior, while the marinated tomatoes and fresh basil add a burst of freshness. This dish is perfect as an appetizer or as a centerpiece for any special occasion.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

For the Balsamic Marinated Tomatoes

6 oz cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tbsp thick balsamic vinegar
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
8 fresh basil leaves, cut into chiffonade

For the Fried Burrata

1 ball (8 oz) burrata
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 large egg
Grapeseed oil, for frying
Microgreens, for serving
Red pepper flakes, for sprinkling
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for sprinkling
Toasted bread, for serving

Directions

Prepare the Balsamic Marinated Tomatoes

In a medium mixing bowl, combine the halved cherry tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, and a pinch of salt and pepper.
Let the tomatoes marinate while you prepare the burrata, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Set Up the Breading Station

Place the panko bread crumbs in a food processor and pulse a few times to make finer crumbs.
Transfer the panko to a shallow bowl. In another shallow bowl, whisk the egg until fully combined.
Pour the flour into a third shallow bowl and season each of the breading ingredients (flour, egg, and panko) with salt and pepper.

Bread the Burrata

Drain the burrata and pat it dry with paper towels.
Dredge the burrata in flour, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Then dip it into the egg and roll it in the panko bread crumbs.
Repeat the egg and panko steps to create a double coating.
Freeze the breaded burrata for 15-20 minutes to firm up before frying.

Fry the Burrata

Heat 1 inch of grapeseed oil in a small skillet over medium heat, or until the oil reaches 375°F.
Fry the burrata for 1½ to 2 minutes per side until golden and crispy.
Drain the fried burrata on paper towels to remove excess oil.

Assemble the Dish

Arrange a bed of microgreens on a serving platter and place the fried burrata in the center.
Stir the chiffonade basil into the marinated tomatoes. Using a slotted spoon, arrange the tomatoes around the burrata.
Sprinkle the dish with freshly grated Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes for added flavor.
Serve immediately with toasted bread on the side for dipping.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

Calories: 450 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 16g
Fat: 29g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 75mg
Sodium: 430mg
Potassium: 380mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 9g

Enjoy this crispy, creamy delight as a perfect starter or main event for your next meal!

The Star Ingredient: Burrata

Burrata, an Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream, is the key player in this dish. Known for its soft, creamy center encased in a firm mozzarella shell, burrata offers a rich, luxurious mouthfeel that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Its smooth texture, combined with its delicate flavor, pairs perfectly with the crispy coating achieved through frying, creating a harmonious balance between crispy and creamy. When fried, the burrata becomes even more indulgent as the outer layer turns golden brown and crispy, while the inside remains soft and velvety.

The Balsamic Marinated Tomatoes

Tomatoes are often the unsung heroes of many Italian dishes, and in this recipe, the balsamic-marinated tomatoes take center stage. By marinating cherry tomatoes in balsamic vinegar, you infuse them with a sweet and tangy flavor that perfectly balances the richness of the fried burrata. The acid in the vinegar helps cut through the creamy burrata, creating a dynamic contrast that elevates the dish. Adding fresh basil further enhances the dish with a fragrant herbaceous note, making each bite a burst of refreshing flavor.

Frying Burrata to Perfection

The technique of frying burrata is crucial to achieving the perfect balance between crispy and creamy. The exterior needs to be golden and crispy, while the interior should remain soft and buttery. To achieve this, the burrata is coated in flour, egg, and panko breadcrumbs, creating a protective layer that crisps up when fried. It is essential to freeze the breaded burrata before frying to ensure the cheese stays intact and doesn’t ooze out during the cooking process. The result is a beautifully golden, crispy exterior that encases a creamy, rich filling.

Marinating the Tomatoes

To prepare the tomatoes for this dish, they are first halved and then marinated in thick balsamic vinegar with a touch of salt and pepper for seasoning. The marination process allows the tomatoes to absorb the tangy sweetness of the vinegar, enhancing their natural flavors and adding a vibrant touch to the dish. The longer the tomatoes marinate, the more intense the flavor becomes. You can prepare the tomatoes ahead of time, allowing them to sit and soak in the vinegar while you focus on preparing the burrata and other components of the dish.

The Importance of Microgreens and Fresh Basil

For added texture and visual appeal, this dish is garnished with microgreens and fresh basil. Microgreens, tiny edible plants packed with flavor and nutrients, add a touch of elegance and a mild peppery flavor that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the fried burrata. Fresh basil, cut into chiffonade, brings a fragrant and aromatic element to the dish, complementing the tanginess of the balsamic-marinated tomatoes and the creaminess of the burrata.

Serving Suggestions

This dish is best served immediately after frying to maintain the crispy texture of the burrata. Once the burrata is fried, place it on a platter atop a bed of microgreens, then spoon the balsamic-marinated tomatoes around it. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a dash of red pepper flakes add a final touch of flavor and a hint of heat. Serve the dish with toasted bread for dipping, allowing guests to scoop up the creamy burrata and flavorful tomatoes, making each bite a delightful experience. This dish also pairs well with a light white wine or sparkling beverage, which enhances the fresh, zesty flavors of the tomatoes and balances the richness of the cheese.

Perfect for Special Occasions

Crispy Fried Burrata with Balsamic Marinated Tomatoes is the perfect dish for special occasions such as dinner parties, family gatherings, or holiday meals. Its sophisticated flavor profile and elegant presentation make it a standout choice for impressing guests, and it can be prepared in advance to save time on the day of your event. The combination of creamy cheese, tangy tomatoes, and crunchy breading is sure to delight the taste buds of everyone at the table, leaving them craving more.

Health Benefits of Burrata and Tomatoes

While this dish is undoubtedly a treat for the taste buds, it also offers some nutritional benefits. Burrata provides a good source of protein and calcium, essential for maintaining strong bones and muscles. It also contains healthy fats, which contribute to a feeling of fullness and satisfaction. The tomatoes, on the other hand, are rich in antioxidants like lycopene, which may help protect the body from harmful free radicals. They are also high in vitamins A and C, which support immune function and promote healthy skin. When enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced meal, this dish can be a delicious and nutritious option.

Conclusion: A Flavorful Fusion of Textures and Tastes

Crispy Fried Burrata with Balsamic Marinated Tomatoes is an exceptional dish that combines a variety of textures and flavors to create a gourmet experience. The crispy, golden-brown exterior of the fried burrata contrasts beautifully with its creamy interior, while the tangy balsamic-marinated tomatoes add a burst of freshness. The fresh basil and microgreens provide aromatic notes, elevating the dish both in taste and presentation. Whether enjoyed as an appetizer or a main course, this dish is sure to impress your guests with its balance of flavors and stunning visual appeal.

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