Sam's Notebook: Fresh Burrata in the Great Outdoors
Welcome back to my online notebook! If you have visited our Mayfield shop recently, you will know we are now stocking fresh burrata weekly. It has quickly become the undisputed star of my spring picnics around Newcastle.
Many people think burrata is strictly for formal dining, but tearing into a fresh ball of this rich, creamy cheese on a picnic rug is pure magic. My lifelong culinary journey has always been driven by the pursuit of exceptional food and authentic flavour. That is exactly why I love this cheese so much. Burrata is a celebration of traditional craftsmanship: a delicate mozzarella pouch filled with fine shreds of cheese soaked in thick, sweet cream.
My Golden Rules for Picnic Burrata
To get the absolute best out of your cheese while enjoying the outdoors, here are my top tips:
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Keep It Room Temp: This is my non-negotiable rule. Never eat burrata ice-cold from the cooler. Let it rest in your picnic basket for at least 30 minutes before serving to ensure the creamy centre spills perfectly over the plate.
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Simple Pairings: Because I firmly believe quality ingredients change everything, you don't need to overcomplicate your board. A generous drizzle of robust extra virgin olive oil, a pinch of flaky sea salt, and a warm crusty sourdough baguette are often all you need.
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Add Some Heat: If you want to push the flavour boundaries, smear some spicy Calabrian 'nduja onto your bread before topping it with the cool, milky burrata. The lush dairy fat cuts through the intense chilli heat beautifully.
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Sweeten the Deal: Pair your cheese with fresh, seasonal spring produce. The rich dairy loves the natural contrast of a sweet, juicy peach or a handful of fresh figs.
For me, breaking bread outdoors over a beautiful cheese is a profound expression of care. Pork Ewe Deli operates as my open table, where my goal is to help you create meaningful, shared moments with the people you love.
Stop by this week to grab a fresh burrata for the weekend. I absolutely love discovering exactly what my customers are cooking and who they will be serving.