Quince salad

Quince Salami - An Autumn Delicacy

This delicious quince salami is a recipe that combines the sweetness of the fruit with the crunchy texture of nuts and biscuits, resulting in a simple yet impressive dessert. Cooking with quinces, known for their distinct aroma, is a tradition passed down from generation to generation, bringing a touch of nostalgia and comfort in every bite. Let’s embark together on the preparation of this dessert.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8

Ingredients

- 500 g quinces (about 2-3 medium-sized quinces)
- 100 g digestive biscuits (or cocoa biscuits for a more intense flavor)
- 50 g nuts (you can also use walnuts or almonds, depending on your preferences)
- 100 g raisins
- 100 g brown sugar (for a deeper flavor)
- 1 teaspoon cinnamon (freshly ground, if possible)
- Water (enough to cover the quinces during boiling)

Necessary utensils

- A pot for boiling
- Wooden spoon
- Grater (optional, for grinding nuts)
- Plastic wrap or cellophane
- Tray for shaping the salami

Step by step

1. Preparing the quinces

Start by washing the quinces well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. Then, using a sharp knife, peel them and remove the core. Cut the quinces into cubes of about 1-2 cm. This will help the fruit cook evenly and quickly.

2. Boiling the quinces

Place the quince cubes in a pot and add enough water to cover them. Bring the water to a boil over medium heat. Once the water starts boiling, reduce the temperature and let the quinces simmer for about 20 minutes, or until they become soft. It is important not to overboil them, as you want them to retain their shape and texture.

3. Sweetening the quinces

After the quinces are boiled, add the brown sugar and cinnamon. These will add a sweet and aromatic flavor to your preparation. Mix well and let the mixture boil for another 10-15 minutes, until the juice reduces and the quinces become a thicker paste. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Preparing the mixture

Meanwhile, place the raisins in a small bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for 10 minutes, then drain them. In another bowl, crush the nuts (or walnuts) with a rolling pin or by hand, depending on your preferences.

5. Combining the ingredients

Once the quince mixture has cooled slightly, add the raisins and crushed nuts. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. Finally, break the biscuits into small pieces and add them to the mixture. This will provide a crunchy texture and help shape the salami.

6. Shaping the salami

On a piece of plastic wrap, pour the mixture and shape it into a log. Wrap it tightly using the wrap, ensuring there are no air pockets. This will help the salami maintain its shape while cooling.

7. Cooling

Place the salami in the refrigerator for at least 3-4 hours, or ideally overnight. This step is essential as it helps firm up the mixture, allowing you to cut beautiful and even slices.

8. Serving

Once the salami has completely cooled, carefully unwrap it and cut it into slices about 1-2 cm thick. You can serve them as they are or decorate them with a little cinnamon or crushed nuts on top. This dessert pairs wonderfully with fruit tea or sweet wine, and its warm aroma will fill the house with joy.

Useful tips

- About quinces: Quinces are rich in vitamins and minerals, having a high fiber content, which makes them excellent for digestion. They also have antioxidant properties.
- Variations: You can experiment with different types of biscuits, such as cocoa or plain ones. You can also add spices like nutmeg or ginger for a more exotic flavor.
- Frequently asked questions:
- *Can I use other fruits?* Yes, you can replace quinces with apples or pears, but the cooking time will vary depending on the fruit.
- *What do I do if I don’t have nuts?* You can use any type of nuts or even sunflower seeds for an allergen-free version.

Conclusion

Quince salami is an easy-to-make recipe, perfect for celebrating autumn and bringing a touch of magic to your meals. With a combination of flavors and a pleasant texture, this dessert will surely impress your family and friends. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every slice! Bon appétit!