Mendoza Crumble

Background and Description

The Mendoza Crumble, an exquisite dessert originating from the heart of the Argentinian wine region, has been a cherished treat for generations. A delightful fusion of vibrant local fruits and the rustic charm of a classic crumble, this dish embodies the essence of Mendoza's rich cultural and culinary heritage. Traditionally, the Mendoza Crumble was enjoyed by local farmers after a long day of work in the vineyards, where ripe fruits were plentiful, and a warm dessert was a sweet reward.

Today, the Mendoza Crumble has evolved, incorporating modern twists while preserving its traditional roots. It harmonizes the tangy freshness of seasonal fruits with the comforting warmth of a crunchy, buttery topping. Whether served as a show-stopping dessert at a festive gathering or a quiet indulgence after dinner, this is a recipe steeped in history, flavor, and love.

Ingredients

• Apples - 3 medium-sized
• Pears - 2 ripe
• Grapes - 1 cup (preferably red or black)
• Sugar - 1/2 cup
• Cinnamon - 1 teaspoon
• Flour - 1 cup
• Butter - 1/2 cup (room temperature)
• Oatmeal - 1/2 cup
• Salt - a pinch
• Lemon Juice - from 1 lemon
• Vanilla Extract - 1 teaspoon

Special Equipment

• Ovenproof baking dish
• Large mixing bowl
• Small saucepan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Preparation

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures that once your components are ready, the Mendoza Crumble can be immediately introduced to the heat, speeding up the cooking process.

Step 2: Prepare the Fruit Filling

Start by washing and peeling the apples and pears. Core and chop them into bite-sized pieces. Place these in a mixing bowl. Add the grapes, ensuring they are properly washed and de-stemmed. Sprinkle the fruits with sugar, cinnamon, and a dash of salt. Pour over the freshly squeezed lemon juice and stir well to coat all the fruits evenly.

Step 3: Prepare the Crumble Topping

In another bowl, combine the flour, oatmeal, and a pinch of salt. Add cubes of butter (ensure it is at room temperature for easy mixing) and work it into the dry ingredients using your fingertips until it resembles coarse crumbs. Add the vanilla extract for an aromatic touch. This mix should be crumbly and not form a dough.

Cooking Process

Step 1: Assemble the Crumble

Lightly grease your ovenproof baking dish. Spread the prepared fruit mixture evenly on the bottom. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the fruit layer, ensuring an even spread for uniform cooking.

Step 2: Bake the Crumble

Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 40-45 minutes. Monitor the Mendoza Crumble occasionally; you are looking for a golden brown topping and bubbling fruit juices around the edges. Baking times may vary slightly depending on your oven, so using a cooking timer will help track.

Step 3: Cooling

Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the fruit mixture to set slightly, and the flavors to meld beautifully, making each bite delectable.

Enjoying Your Mendoza Crumble

The Mendoza Crumble can be served warm or cold, but it truly shines when served slightly warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream. The contrast between the warm, tart fruit and the cold cream creates a symphony of flavors and textures.

Pair it with a glass of Argentinian Malbec wine for an authentic experience. The wine's rich, fruity undertones complement the crumble, enhancing its natural flavors. Whether savoring it alone or sharing with loved ones, this dessert promises a memorable finish to any meal.