Mozzarella is a popular Italian cheese that is widely enjoyed for its creamy texture and mild flavor. It can be found in various towns and communes of Basilicata, a region in southern Italy. One of the towns where mozzarella is produced is Filiano, known for its traditional cheese-making techniques. Another commune where mozzarella can be found is Melfi, which is famous for its high-quality dairy products.

In Filiano, you can find mozzarella at local cheese shops such as Caseificio Di Nucci and Caseificio Di Lascio. These shops offer a wide range of mozzarella varieties, including the classic mozzarella di bufala made from buffalo milk. In Melfi, you can visit Caseificio La Stella and Caseificio Di Vito, which are renowned for their artisanal mozzarella production.

Mozzarella can be used in various recipes to enhance the flavor of dishes. One popular recipe is Caprese salad, which combines mozzarella with fresh tomatoes, basil leaves, and a drizzle of olive oil. Another delicious dish is Margherita pizza, where mozzarella is melted on top of a thin crust with tomato sauce and fresh basil.

Mozzarella from Basilicata has received the PAT (Traditional Agri-Food Products) recognition, which guarantees its authenticity and adherence to traditional production methods. The specifications for PAT mozzarella include using only buffalo milk or a mixture of buffalo and cow milk, a minimum fat content of 45%, and a maximum moisture content of 60%.

Sources:
– “Caseificio Di Nucci” – www.casedinucci.it
– “Caseificio Di Lascio” – www.casedilascio.it
– “Caseificio La Stella” – www.caseifiolastella.it
– “Caseificio Di Vito” – www.caseificiodivito.it