Candied Fruit / Mostarda

What is mostarda?

Mostarda is a uniquely Italian confection that can be, admittedly, utterly bewildering to people who have never encountered it. It’s a combination of fruit, sugar syrup, and a touch of mustard essence. The result is a sweet yet subtly spiced confection that can be served with a range of sweet and savory foods, including desserts, cheeses, and boiled meats. The ingredients vary slightly from region to region, with cities like Cremona and Mantua having their own preferred preparations. Generally, Italian mostarda includes mixed fruits such as pears, apricots, peaches, and apples.

What do Italians use candied fruit for?

Regular candied fruit (hold the mustard seed) is also a beloved Italian treat. They can come whole, in cubes, or in slices. Italians love their fruit cakes, from Milan’s famous panettone to Bologna’s certosino. It’s simply impossible to imagine Christmastime in Italy without desserts featuring candied fruit. At Supermarket Italy, you’ll find mostarda and candied fruit from brands such as Rex, Vergani, and Sperlari.