Classic Caprese w/ Mozzarella di Bufala

 

Ingredients: tomatoes, basil, Buffalo mozzarella, olive oil, lavender balsamic vinegar

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If you've never tried Buffalo mozzarella, you have not lived. It is refreshingly creamy and soft and typically served chilled and kept in a water bath to prevent it from drying out. It is definitely an indulgence, much pricier than regular mozzarella, but worth every penny. Buffalo mozzarella is worlds away from the classic mozzarella which is usually featured on pizzas, lasagnas, and your standard Italian fare.  Someone told me once about the technical differences in making Buffalo vs. regular mozzarella, but I don't remember. All I know is that this is possibly the best cheese on the planet - and perfect with a caprese. You can find it at any cheese shop or Italian deli, and even at Trader Joe's. 

And while we're on the topic, here are some of my favorite Fromageries:

Cowgirl Creamery - San Francisco Ferry Bldg.

Berkeley Bowl West, Cheese Counter - West Berkeley

The Cheese Board - North Berkeley / Gourmet Ghetto

The Pasta Shop, Cheese Counter - West Berkeley

The Cheesestore of Silverlake - Silverlake, Los Angeles

Andrew's Cheese Shop - Santa Monica

Monsieur Marcel - Inside the 3rd & Fairfax Farmer's Market, Los Angeles

And one last thing, the lavender balsamic vinegar I have is out of this world! I was scared it would taste too flowery from the lavender, but it is so subtle that the folks at Amphora Nueva seemed to get it just right by extracting only the sweet flavors from the blossoms. It's so great on salads and with bread for dipping!