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Quince, Ginger, and Pecan Conserve

In this recipe we slowly "double-cook" the quince, which prevents the fruit from crystallizing and heightens the pinkish- orange color it turns when cooked.

Recipe information

  • Yield

    Makes about 2 cups

Ingredients

1

/2 cup pecans

3

medium quinces (about 1 1/2 pounds total)

a 1-inch piece fresh gingerroot

1

3/4 cups sugar

3

cups water

1

teaspoon mustard seeds

1

/4 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes

1

teaspoon white-wine vinegar

1

/2 teaspoon salt

Accompaniments: meats, cheeses, and crackers

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Preparation

  1. Step 1

    Preheat oven to 350°F.

    Step 2

    On a baking sheet in middle of oven toast pecans in one layer until golden, about 10 minutes, and when cool coarsely chop. Peel, quarter, and core quinces. Cut quarters lengthwise into 1/8-inch-thick slices and cut each slice crosswise into 6 pieces. Peel gingerroot and cut into fine julienne strips.

    Step 3

    In a 3-quart heavy saucepan bring quince, gingerroot, and all remaining ingredients except pecans to a boil. Simmer mixture, covered, stirring occasionally, 2 1/2 hours (quince will be deep pinkish orange). Cool mixture in pan, covered, at room temperature at least 8 hours and up to 1 day.

    Step 4

    Return pan to heat and simmer mixture, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes. Stir in pecans and transfer conserve to a bowl to cool completely. (Conserve keeps, covered and chilled, 1 month.)

    Step 5

    Serve conserve with meats, cheeses, and crackers.