Mustarda di Cremona, also known as Italian Fruit Mustard, is a delightful condiment that adds a burst of flavor to your dishes. Originating from the Italian city of Cremona, this traditional recipe combines a variety of fruits with a tangy and spicy syrup, resulting in a unique and versatile accompaniment to meats, cheeses, and more. With its vibrant colors and complex flavors, it’s sure to impress your guests and elevate any meal.
Ingredients:
- 2 pears
- 2 plums
- 2 apricots
- 2 fresh figs
- 300g cherries
- 2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup dry white wine
- 1/2 cup honey
- 1 1/4 tbsp mustard powder
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Fruits: Begin by preparing the fruits. Peel, core, and chop the pears, plums, and apricots into bite-sized pieces. Cut the fresh figs into quarters, and pit the cherries. Place all the prepared fruits into a large saucepan.
-
-
Cook the Fruits: Add just enough water to cover the fruits in the saucepan. Stir in the sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the flame to low and simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the fruits to soften and the flavors to meld together.
-
Drain the Fruits: Once the fruits are tender, carefully drain them, reserving the syrup for later use. Set aside the drained fruits to cool slightly.
-
Dry the Fruits: Preheat your oven to 120 degrees Celsius. Spread the cooked fruits evenly on a baking pan lined with parchment paper. Place the pan in the preheated oven and allow the fruits to dry for approximately 30 minutes, or until they are slightly dehydrated.
-
Prepare the Syrup: While the fruits are drying, prepare the syrup. In a separate saucepan, combine the dry white wine, honey, and the reserved syrup from cooking the fruits. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.
-
Add the Mustard: Once the syrup has thickened slightly, stir in the mustard powder until it is fully incorporated. Continue to simmer the mixture for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
-
Combine the Fruits and Syrup: Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully transfer the dried fruits into sterilized jars, arranging them evenly. Pour the prepared syrup over the fruits, ensuring that they are completely covered.
-
Seal and Store: Once the jars are filled, allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dry place. Mustarda di Cremona can be stored for up to 6 months in sterilized jars. Once opened, refrigerate any leftover mustard for optimal freshness.
Serving Suggestions:
Mustarda di Cremona pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Serve it alongside cured meats such as prosciutto or salami for a classic Italian antipasto platter. It also makes a delicious accompaniment to aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano. For a festive touch, incorporate it into holiday spreads or use it as a glaze for roasted meats such as pork or turkey. The sweet and spicy flavor profile of this fruit mustard adds depth and complexity to any dish, making it a versatile staple in your pantry.
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: 3722.9
- Fat: 20.2g
- Saturated Fat: 1.2g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 38.3mg
- Carbohydrates: 903.8g
- Fiber: 28.7g
- Sugar: 855.6g
- Protein: 21.5g
Recipe Notes:
- To ensure the longevity of your Mustarda di Cremona, it’s essential to use sterilized jars for storing.
- The combination of fruits can be customized based on personal preference and seasonal availability.
- Adjust the amount of mustard powder according to your desired level of spiciness.
- Mustarda di Cremona develops its full flavor after a few days of maturation, so be patient before serving.
- Get creative with serving ideas, such as incorporating it into sandwiches, salads, or even desserts for a unique twist.
With its balance of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, Mustarda di Cremona is a delightful addition to any culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply looking to elevate your everyday meals, this homemade fruit mustard is sure to impress. Enjoy the process of making this traditional Italian condiment and savor the delicious results with every bite.
