Mugolio (Pine Cone Bud Syrup) from Primitivizia
As seen in the May 2008 issue of
Bon Appétit.
The Dolomite Alps hold the secret to one of our newest and 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 syrup has a rich, pine and honey flavor that is a perfect complement to apples and pears, creamy cheeses like ricotta or mascarpone and stone fruits like peaches.
