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I first encountered this combination at a small deli in Bologna, Italy. The owner insisted I try his special sandwich - mortadella from the local salumeria paired with creamy burrata from Puglia. The contrast between the delicate mortadella and the rich, creamy burrata was mind-blowing. The bread was crusty yet tender, the perfect vessel for these premium ingredients. It's a sandwich that transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary, showcasing why Italian cuisine is all about quality ingredients treated with respect.
Why I love this recipe
I love this recipe because it embodies everything great about Italian food - simplicity, quality ingredients, and incredible flavor. The way the creamy burrata slowly melts and mingles with the delicate mortadella creates this amazing texture that's both luxurious and comforting. It's also incredibly versatile - perfect for a quick lunch, a sophisticated picnic, or even cut into smaller portions for appetizers. The beauty of this sandwich lies in its simplicity - when you use high-quality ingredients, you don't need much else to create something memorable.
What You Need From Your Kitchen
- Italian bread:Choose a fresh, crusty roll with a soft interior
- Mortadella:Select high-quality, thinly sliced authentic Italian mortadella
- Burrata:Use fresh, room temperature burrata for optimal creaminess
- Olive oil:Choose extra virgin for the best flavor
- Fresh basil:Optional but adds a wonderful aromatic touch
Let's Make These Together
- Prepare the bread
- Slice your Italian roll horizontally, creating a top and bottom piece. Drizzle both inner sides with quality olive oil.
- Prepare the burrata
- Break the burrata into pieces, ensuring you get both the outer shell and creamy center.
- Layer the mortadella
- Arrange the mortadella slices in loose folds to create volume and texture.
- Season and finish
- Add a pinch of sea salt and fresh pepper, then close the sandwich and serve immediately.
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Switch Things Up
One day, while experimenting with my usual Italian cold cuts, I decided to swap regular mozzarella for burrata. The moment that creamy center oozed into the mortadella, I knew I'd never go back to regular cheese. The combination was absolutely perfect - rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying.
Perfect Pairings
Serve this sandwich with a crisp Italian white wine like Verdicchio or Pinot Grigio. A side of marinated artichokes or a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil complements the rich flavors perfectly. For a complete meal, add some marinated olives and a few slices of ripe tomato on the side.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I make this sandwich in advance?
It's best enjoyed immediately after preparation to maintain the bread's texture and burrata's freshness.
- → What type of bread works best?
Fresh Italian bread with a crusty exterior and soft interior is ideal.
- → Can I substitute the burrata?
Fresh mozzarella can be used, though it won't be as creamy.
- → How should I store leftover ingredients?
Keep mortadella and burrata refrigerated separately and use within 2-3 days.
- → Can I add other ingredients?
Yes, arugula, tomatoes, or basil can be added, but the simple version allows the main ingredients to shine.
Conclusion
This Mortadella and Burrata Sandwich is the perfect blend of simplicity and luxury. The creamy burrata melts into the delicate mortadella, while the crusty bread adds the perfect texture. It's an elevated take on the classic Italian sandwich that brings together the best of Italian deli ingredients.