Moustalevria the traditional Greek Grape Must Pudding

Literally meaning Grape Must & Flour, “Moustalevria” is an old-fashioned pudding-like dessert, popular at grape harvest season when the must (the juice from pressed grapes before fermentation) is fresh. Moustalevria originated in Ancient Greece where it was known under the name oinouta. During the Byzantine era it was called mustopita or pastellos. The Greek sweet delicacy can be made with either fresh grape juice (usually sold at farmers markets, specialty stores or vineyards and is boiled and cleaned from impurities) or with concentrated grape juice (petimezi) when no fresh juice is available. It is a nutrient-dense dessert, providing a rich source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants derived from grapes. A lovely treat with earthy, nutty and warming flavors!

Ingredients

2 cups fresh grape must
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 cup water
Cinnamon (to serve)
Walnuts or sesame (to serve)

Instructions

In a large-sized pan, combine the fresh grape must and water. Mix well. Gradually add the all-purpose flour to the mixture, stirring continuously. Place the pan over medium heat. Stir constantly until it thickens into a creamy texture. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently. Keep stirring! Stirring is essential during this time to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the span. Transfer to individual bowls and let your moustalevria cool down. Cover them with plastic wrap and place them in the fridge for a few hours and serve cold, or at room temperature. Sprinkle with crushed walnuts or sesame and cinnamon before serving.

Tips: There are many variations of this recipe. In some islands in the Aegean locals also add Mastic to flavor it. In other areas of Greece, possible additions are rose water, vanilla, cloves. “Moustokouloura” or must cookies are the cookie version, another beloved Greek culinary delight. Soft, chewy and full of aromas they are perfect for dunking into coffee or tea.