Elevate Your Banquet with Mustard and Ragu Cups

When it comes to hosting a banquet, the key to impressing your guests lies in the details. One of those details can be the delightful and versatile Mustard and Ragu Cups. This delectable dish combines the tangy zing of mustard with rich, hearty ragu, all nestled within a crispy cup. Perfect as appetizers or elegant finger foods, these cups are sure to elevate your gathering and leave a lasting impression.

Ingredients

For the Mustard and Ragu Cups, you will need:

For the Cups:

• 1 package of wonton wrappers (14 oz)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 teaspoon of salt
• Cooking spray

For the Ragu:

• 1 lb ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon of dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mustard Sauce:

• 1/2 cup of Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup of honey
• 1 tablespoon of red wine vinegar
• Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Cups

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly brush each wonton wrapper with olive oil and sprinkle salt on top.
3. Press the wrappers into the cups of a muffin tin, creating a small bowl shape.
4. Bake for 8-10 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Allow them to cool while you prepare the filling.

Step 2: Cook the Ragu

1. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until they turn translucent.
3. Add the ground meat, cooking until browned. Drain any excess fat.
4. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.

Step 3: Make the Mustard Sauce

1. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, and red wine vinegar until smooth. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 4: Assemble the Cups

1. Once the wonton cups have cooled, fill each cup generously with the ragu mixture.
2. Drizzle the mustard sauce over the ragu, adding a touch of sweetness and tang.
3. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve your Mustard and Ragu Cups warm, and watch them disappear at your banquet!

Cooking Tips

• Ingredient Selection: Choose high-quality mustard for the sauce. A gourmet Dijon mustard can elevate the flavor significantly.
• Meat Alternatives: For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty texture.
• Make Ahead: You can prepare the ragu a day in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen. Just reheat before serving.
• Presentation: Use colorful herbs like basil or chives as a garnish to add a pop of color and freshness.

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the ragu for a spicy twist.
• Cheesy Delight: Top the ragu with shredded mozzarella cheese before baking for a cheesy version.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free wonton wrappers or phyllo dough for those with gluten intolerance, ensuring everyone can enjoy this scrumptious appetizer.

Pairing Suggestions

Complement your Mustard and Ragu Cups with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red such as Pinot Noir. A refreshing salad with a vinaigrette can also balance the richness of the ragu.

Final Thoughts

The Mustard and Ragu Cups are not just a dish; they are a culinary experience that will elevate your banquet. Their unique combination of flavors and textures is sure to delight your guests and keep them coming back for more. Experiment with the recipe, make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family.

For more culinary inspiration and tips, explore further articles on gourmet cooking techniques and presentation styles. Happy cooking!