Mendoza, Argentina, is known for its exceptional wines, but its vineyards offer much more than just fine bottles. The region’s commitment to sustainability and culinary innovation has brought forward an unexpected yet valuable ingredient: grape flour. Repurposing a byproduct of winemaking, this unique flour embodies the essence of Mendoza’s terroir while offering remarkable health benefits.
Blending Wine and Pastry
To further explore the potential of local ingredients, we spoke with Francisca Costanzo, a leading figure in Mendoza’s culinary and baking scene. As the co-founder of Bröd Bakery and a passionate advocate for sustainable gastronomy, Francisca has dedicated her last years to reimagining traditional flavors and incorporating regional products in innovative ways. Her expertise in working with alternative ingredients, such as grape flour, has made her a key gastronomy figure in Mendoza, as an ambassador of blending heritage with modern culinary techniques.
The Importance of Local Ingredients
Using locally sourced ingredients is essential for authentic cuisine. It enhances the integrity of traditional dishes, ensures the highest quality raw materials, and fosters a deeper connection with the land. Mendoza’s gastronomy thrives on this principle, celebrating the richness of its agricultural heritage. Grape flour, made by dehydrating and milling the skins and seeds of grapes after wine production, is a perfect example of this philosophy in action. By incorporating it into baking and cooking, chefs and home cooks alike can give new life to an ingredient deeply rooted in the region’s identity.
Why Grape Flour? Sustainability and Health Benefits
The choice of grape flour is not only about its unique flavor but also about its nutritional and environmental advantages. As a byproduct of winemaking, grape flour transforms what would otherwise be waste into a valuable and functional ingredient. This sustainable practice aligns with circular economy principles, reducing food waste and maximizing the use of vineyard resources.
Beyond its environmental impact, grape flour is a powerhouse of health benefits:
- Rich in Antioxidants: Packed with polyphenols, proanthocyanidins, and anthocyanins, grape flour helps combat oxidative stress and inflammation.
- Supports Heart Health: Studies have shown that it can reduce LDL («bad») cholesterol levels and promote better circulation.
- Aids in Weight Management: It has been linked to enhanced metabolism and energy expenditure.
- Diabetes-Friendly: Grape flour may help regulate blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity.
- Gluten-Free Alternative: A nutritious addition for those with gluten intolerance or those looking to diversify their diet.
Recipe:
Grape and Raspberry Crumble with Grape Flour Sablé Dough
This dessert is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the tartness of raspberries with the depth of grape flour. The sablé dough adds a nutty, slightly fruity note, making it an exquisite treat.
Ingredients
For the Sablé Dough:
- 110g all-purpose flour
- 50g grape flour
- 1 egg
- 70g butter
- 50g mascabo sugar
- 45ml sunflower oil
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
For the Filling:
- 100g grapes (seedless, halved)
- 50g fresh or frozen raspberries
For the Crumble Topping:
- 100g all-purpose flour
- 100g butter
- 100g mascabo sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a bowl, mix the flours and sugar. Add the egg, oil, and vanilla extract, combining until a soft dough forms. Wrap in plastic and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Preheat Oven: Set the oven to 180°C (350°F). Grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the Filling: Toss the grapes and raspberries together in a bowl and set aside.
- Make the Crumble: In another bowl, mix the flour and sugar, then rub in the butter with your fingers until a crumbly texture forms.
- Assemble the Crumble: Roll out the sablé dough to fit the base of the baking dish. Spread the grape and raspberry mixture evenly over the dough. Sprinkle the crumble topping generously over the fruit.
- Bake: Place in the oven for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and crisp.
- Serve: Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm, optionally paired with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
The Perfect Wine Pairing
To truly embrace Mendoza’s flavors, serve this crumble with a glass of Cabernet Franc. The wine’s bright acidity and subtle herbal notes complement the natural sweetness of the fruit while enhancing the dish’s rich textures.
Embracing Innovation in Local Cuisine
Grape flour is more than just a novel ingredient; it represents a commitment to sustainability, health-conscious eating, and the art of transforming regional products into culinary delights. By incorporating it into recipes, we honor Mendoza’s winemaking heritage while creating flavorful, nutritious dishes that connect us to the land.
Next time you’re in the kitchen, consider experimenting with grape flour—you might just discover your new favorite ingredient.
Francisca Costanzo | A Culinary Journey Through Wine & Baking
I’m from Mendoza, Argentina, where my journey in tourism began over 15 years ago. My passion for gastronomy, especially pastry, has been with me since childhood—first as a way to connect with family and friends, and later as the foundation of my brand, Bröd Bakery. While developing my bakery, I also worked in wine tourism, a field that continues to inspire me. Exploring new recipes and discovering unique wine pairings is a constant challenge that fuels my creativity.
ARGENTINA FOOD & WINE
Exploring Taste, One Recipe at the Time
Mendoza’s culinary identity is deeply intertwined with its world-renowned wine culture. Through this series, we celebrate the richness of local ingredients and their connection to winemaking, transforming them into innovative, flavorful dishes. By exploring new ways to integrate regional products into cooking, we honor sustainability while embracing creativity in the kitchen. Join us on a journey of taste, where tradition and innovation come together to showcase the essence of Mendoza—one recipe at a time.
