Italian Pine Cone Bud Condiment for Desserts, Baking & Cheese
As seen in the New York Times Dining Section
The Dolomite Alps hold the secret to one of our favorite products—the mugo pine. A miniature pine tree of about 5 - 10 feet, this petite tree produces a pine cone that holds a sweet elixir, drawn out by the sun.
Elinora Cunacia—owner of Primitivizia—harvests these pine cones and stores them in sun-drenched glass jars for a few months, coaxing out the sweet syrup from within. In late Autumn, the syrup is filtered and cooked with sugar to a deep golden brown liquid. This prized condiment has a rich, woodsy honeyed flavor that complements fall produce like apples and pears, wild game and hearty meats as well as creamy cheeses like ricotta and mascarpone.
How to use
- Serve whole-roasted apples with a dollop of mascarpone and a drizzle of mugolio.
- Purée fresh whole-milk ricotta with a bit of mugolio and serve alongside a poached pear.
- Serve fresh vanilla gelato with sliced peaches and finish with mugolio.
- Pour a bit over panna cotta or any custard.
- Fill a crepe with creamy ricotta or mascarpone, sauteed pears and a drizzle of mugolio.
- Use as a sauce for duck.
Featured in these recipes:
