Quince and apple jelly

Quince and Apple Jelly: A Delightful Treat Full of Flavor and Color

If you want to bring a touch of autumn flavor to every jar, quince and apple jelly is the perfect choice. This recipe will not only delight you with its divine taste but also provide an ingenious way to use the leftovers from your quince preserves. Its vibrant red color and intense aroma will transform any meal into a feast. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours (approximately)
Total time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8 jars of 400g

Ingredients:

- Peels and cores from 2 kg of quinces
- 4 slightly tart apples
- 2 liters of water
- 1 kg of sugar

A Brief History

Jelly is a traditional dish, valued over time for its versatility. It has often been used as a way to preserve fruits during the bountiful harvest season. Cooking jelly from peels and cores is an eco-friendly practice that helps us reduce food waste. Besides its exceptional taste, jelly is a treasure of nature, full of nutrients and health benefits.

Ingredient Details

Quinces: These wonderful fruits are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Their color and aroma intensify when cooked, giving the jelly a warm hue and an unmistakable flavor.

Apples: Choose tart apples for a pleasant contrast with the sweetness of quinces. Apples add an extra layer of flavor and contribute to the jelly's texture.

Sugar: This is the thickening agent, but it also adds sweetness to the dish. You can experiment with alternative sugars, such as honey or natural sweeteners, but these may affect the jelly's texture.

Preparation Technique

Step 1: Prepare the Liquid

1. In a large pot, add 2 liters of water.
2. Add the peels and cores from the quinces, along with the quartered apples. Make sure the apples are unpeeled to benefit from all their flavors.
3. Let the mixture simmer on low heat. It’s crucial not to stir too much to avoid clouding the juice. The low heat will help extract the flavors without destroying the composition.

Step 2: Strain the Liquid

1. After about an hour of simmering, when the volume has reduced by more than half, turn off the heat.
2. Let the mixture sit for 10-15 minutes. This will allow solid particles to settle at the bottom of the pot, and the liquid will become clear.
3. Use a fine strainer or cheesecloth to separate the liquid from the solids. It’s important to do this carefully to achieve a clear liquid.

Step 3: Cook the Jelly

1. Measure 1 liter of the obtained liquid and place it in a pot.
2. Add 1 kg of sugar and stir over low heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
3. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat and let the jelly boil. Pay attention to the texture; the jelly is ready when it has a liquid jelly-like appearance and easily coats the spoon.

Step 4: Jar the Jelly

1. Turn off the heat and fill sterilized jars with the hot jelly. Ensure the jars are well cleaned to prevent any contamination.
2. Immediately seal the jars with lids to preserve the aroma and freshness. Allow them to cool completely at room temperature.

Serving and Variations

This quince and apple jelly can be enjoyed simply on a slice of toasted bread or alongside cheeses, adding a delicious contrast. It also works wonderfully as a filling for cakes or pastries, enhancing both flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions:
- Serve the jelly with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for a creamy contrast.
- Offer the jelly as part of a cheese and dried fruit platter – an elegant appetizer for any occasion.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like pears or apricots, but cooking times and proportions may vary.

2. How long does the jelly last?
If stored in sealed jars and kept in a cool, dark place, the jelly can last up to a year.

3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar?
You can reduce the sugar, but this will affect the jelly's texture. Try reducing it by 20% for a less sweet taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Quince and apple jelly is rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, benefiting the immune system and digestion. Additionally, moderate consumption of jelly should not be an issue for those pursuing a healthy lifestyle, as long as it is part of a balanced diet.

Conclusion

Quince and apple jelly is more than just a simple preparation; it’s a way to preserve autumn memories in a jar. With each spoonful, you will feel the warmth and love put into its making. So, don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones, allowing other hearts to enjoy the natural flavor of your jelly. Enjoy!