Autumn's gentle chill brings with it the promise of cozy nights and the sweet reward of harvest season. And what better way to capture the essence of fall than with a batch of homemade apple and pear preserve? This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned preservers alike, resulting in a delicious and healthy treat you can enjoy all year round. It's a simple addition to your homemade cooking repertoire, ideal for quick gifts or simply savoring with toast and a cup of tea. This recipe is among the best recipes for those seeking delicious dishes and healthy meals.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) cooking apples (such as Bramley), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 750g (1.6 lbs) pears (such as Conference), peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) granulated sugar
- 150ml (5 fl oz) water
- 1 lemon, juiced
Equipment:
- Large, heavy-based saucepan
- Sterilized jars and lids
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sugar thermometer (optional but recommended)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Fruit: Peel, core, and chop the apples and pears into roughly equal-sized pieces. This ensures even cooking. Smaller pieces will reduce the cooking time.
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Combine Ingredients: In the large saucepan, combine the chopped fruit, sugar, water, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure the sugar is distributed evenly amongst the fruit.
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Simmer Gently: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Avoid high heat, as this can scorch the fruit and affect the final color and flavor.
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Check for Setting Point: Once simmering, continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the preserve reaches setting point. This usually takes 45-60 minutes, depending on the fruit and the heat. The setting point is reached when a small amount of preserve placed on a chilled plate wrinkles when pushed with a finger. Alternatively, use a sugar thermometer; the mixture should reach 104-105°C (219-221°F).
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Jar the Preserve: Carefully ladle the hot preserve into the sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, seal tightly with the lids, and turn upside down for a few minutes to create a vacuum seal.
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Cool and Store: Leave the jars to cool completely. You should hear a satisfying “pop” as the jars seal. Store in a cool, dark, and dry place. Your homemade apple and pear preserve should last for at least a year.
Tips for Success:
- Fruit Choice: Using a combination of apples and pears gives a lovely balance of sweetness and tartness. Feel free to experiment with different varieties for varying flavors.
- Sterilizing Jars: This is crucial for preserving your preserve. Wash jars and lids thoroughly in hot, soapy water, then sterilize them in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
- Stirring: Frequent stirring prevents sticking and ensures even cooking.
- Setting Point: Don’t rush this step! Ensuring the preserve reaches setting point is essential for preventing spoilage.
Variations:
- Spiced Preserve: Add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or a pinch of ground ginger during cooking for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange zest or a splash of orange juice for a brighter, zestier preserve.
- Adding Nuts: Chopped walnuts or pecans added during the last few minutes of cooking provide a delightful crunch.
Nutritional Information (per 100g, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific fruits used but a rough estimate is:
- Calories: Approximately 250-300 kcal
- Sugar: High (due to the added sugar)
- Fiber: Moderate
This simple yet elegant recipe offers a delightful way to preserve the flavors of autumn. Enjoy the fruits of your labor with this quick dinner idea or a simple yet delicious addition to your healthy meals. It is surely among the easy recipes that even beginner cooks can master. Serve on toast, scones, or use it as a filling for pastries. The possibilities are endless!