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Irresistible Cranberry Mostarda Recipe for Perfect Cheese Boards

cranberry mostarda - featured image

This cranberry mostarda is a tangy-sweet Italian condiment with a festive twist, perfect for pairing with cheese or roasted meats. It’s easy to make and adds sophistication to any platter.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 12 ounces fresh cranberries
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
  • 1 tablespoon yellow mustard seeds
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: orange zest, a pinch of cinnamon or cloves, or a splash of honey

Instructions

  1. Rinse 12 ounces (340 grams) of fresh cranberries under cool water and pick out any soft or bruised ones.
  2. In a medium saucepan, add the cranberries, 1 cup (200 grams) of sugar, 1/2 cup (120 ml) of water, and 1/4 cup (60 ml) of apple cider vinegar. Stir to combine.
  3. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries start to pop and break down.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard, 1 tablespoon of yellow mustard seeds, and 1/4 teaspoon of salt. If you’re adding orange zest or spices, now’s the time to include them.
  5. Continue to simmer the mixture for another 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll know it’s ready when the mostarda thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
  6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mostarda cool to room temperature. Transfer it to a glass jar or container and refrigerate for at least 2 hours to allow the flavors to meld.

Notes

[‘Let the cranberries slowly break down during simmering for a rich flavor.’, ‘Taste as you go and adjust sweetness or spice level to your preference.’, ‘Fresh cranberries yield the best flavor and texture, but frozen can be used.’, ‘Store in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: cranberry mostarda, cheese board, holiday recipe, Italian condiment, sweet and tangy, easy recipe, festive spread