Mostarda, most commonly known as “mostarda di frutta,” is a mustard and fruit condiment from Northern Italy traditionally served with a feast of mixed boiled meats. Our version features kabocha squash and is the perfect addition to a cheese or charcuterie board to create a quick and memorable appetizer.

By / Photography By | September 23, 2019

Ingredients

  • 2 pounds kabocha squash, diced, about 3 cups
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
  • 3 teaspoons mustard powder
  • 1 apple, cored and diced, about 1 cup
  • ½ cup diced purple onion
  • 1 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced, about 1 tablespoon
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 2-inch cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions

Serves 8–10

Cut the squash in half, scoop out the seeds and discard, then peel and dice the squash into ¼-inch cubes. In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toast the mustard seeds in oil for 1 minute, then add the remaining ingredients. Cover and gently simmer for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the lid and simmer over medium-low heat for 30 to 45 minutes until most of the liquid is gone; the squash should be tender but keep its shape, and the mixture should have a jam-like consistency. Remove the cinnamon stick with a slotted spoon. Let the mostarda cool to room temperature.

Transfer to Mason jars and store in the fridge for up to 1 month. Serve with crusty bread or sharp cheese, or serve over your favorite roasted protein.

Edible Michiana original recipe

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Ingredients

  • 2 pounds kabocha squash, diced, about 3 cups
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons mustard seeds
  • 3 teaspoons mustard powder
  • 1 apple, cored and diced, about 1 cup
  • ½ cup diced purple onion
  • 1 1-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced, about 1 tablespoon
  • ½ cup dried cranberries
  • ¾ cup sugar
  • 1 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 2-inch cinnamon stick
  • 1 teaspoon salt
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