Homemade Spiced Fruit Mostarda

Ingredients

• 1 cup (200g) dried apricots, chopped 1 cup (200g) dried apricots, chopped
• 1 cup (200g) dried cherries 1 cup (200g) dried cherries
• 1 cup (200g) dried figs, chopped 1 cup (200g) dried figs, chopped
• 1 cup (200g) sugar 1 cup (200g) sugar
• 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine vinegar 1/4 cup (60ml) white wine vinegar
• 2 tablespoons mustard seeds 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/4 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon salt

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 0g, 0g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 46g, 38g
• Protein: 1g
• Fiber: 4g
• Salt: 0.1g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large saucepan, combine the dried apricots, cherries, figs, sugar, vinegar, mustard seeds, red pepper flakes, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
2. 2.
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Reduce the heat to low and let the mostarda simmer for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the fruits are tender and the mixture has thickened.
4. 4.
   Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the mostarda cool completely.
5. 5.
   Transfer the mostarda to sterilized jars and refrigerate for at least 24 hours before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Dried apricots — Make sure to use unsweetened dried apricots for a more natural and balanced flavor.
• Dried cherries — Look for tart dried cherries to add a tangy element to the mostarda.
• Dried figs — Choose soft and plump dried figs for a luscious texture in the final condiment.

Tips & Tricks

• Adjust the spiciness by adding more or less red pepper flakes according to your preference.
• For a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the mostarda before refrigerating it.
• Serve the mostarda at room temperature to enhance its flavors.

Serving advice

Serve the homemade spiced fruit mostarda alongside a cheese platter, charcuterie board, or roasted meats. It pairs exceptionally well with aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Pecorino Romano.

Presentation advice

Present the mostarda in small jars or bowls, allowing the vibrant colors of the fruits to shine through. Garnish with a sprig of fresh herbs, such as rosemary or thyme, for an elegant touch.