The history of mustazzoli dates back to the Arab domination of Sicily between the 9th and 11th centuries. Arabs brought with them a long-standing tradition of preparing sweet, nutty delicacies made from almonds, honey, and sesame. Over time, this preparation was adopted by the Sicilians and merged with their own food culture, resulting in the creation of mustazzoli.
Mustazzoli is made with a variety of ingredients, including flour, honey, sugar, almonds, and citrus fruits. Once the dough has been made using these ingredients, it is cut into diamond shapes and baked in the oven until it is golden brown. The final product is crunchy on the outside and soft and chewy on the inside, with the perfect balance of sweet and nutty flavors.
The preparation of mustazzoli is a laborious and time-consuming process. Traditionally, it is prepared weeks in advance of holidays and special occasions, allowing time for the flavors to develop and mature. Once it is ready, mustazzoli is typically served alongside a cup of coffee or a glass of dessert wine, such as Marsala or Passito.
Mustazzoli is not just a simple dessert; it also carries a lot of cultural significance. It is typically prepared during the Christmas season, as it is believed to be a symbol of good luck and prosperity for the new year. In fact, throughout Sicily, it is common to see trays of mustazzoli during the holiday season, as it is believed to bring good fortune to the household.
Despite the cultural significance of mustazzoli, its popularity has decreased in recent years as younger generations move away from traditional foods. However, there is a growing movement among chefs and food enthusiasts to revive this historic recipe and reintroduce it to a wider audience.
In Messina, efforts are underway to preserve the tradition of mustazzoli by hosting workshops and events that showcase the dish. These efforts are aimed at keeping the recipe alive and passing it down to future generations.
Mustazzoli is not just a delicious dessert, but also an important piece of Italian and Sicilian food heritage. Its rich history and cultural significance are a testament to the enduring power of food to connect people across time and place and to evoke meaningful memories and traditions.