Quince Dish by Ina

Quince dish - a sweet and sour delight

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes
Servings: 4

Discover a recipe that will take you on a wave of flavor and nostalgia: quince dish! This delicacy, although it can be considered a dish, perfectly fits into the dessert category as well. So, if you have a sweet craving that takes you back to childhood, this recipe is the ideal choice. Quinces, with their distinct aroma, are an excellent choice for any occasion and are rich in nutrients, having a high content of vitamin C and antioxidants.

The history of quinces

The quince is a fruit with a fascinating history, used for thousands of years in various cultures. These fruits have been appreciated not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. In the past, quinces were often used in medicine, and today they are recognized for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Necessary ingredients

- 2 medium quinces (choose firm and fragrant quinces)
- 1 tablespoon of flour (preferably whole grain for a deeper flavor)
- 5-6 tablespoons of sugar (adjust the amount according to the acidity of the quinces)
- 80 ml of oil (use sunflower or olive oil for a more intense aroma)
- Water (enough to cover the quinces while boiling)
- A handful of fresh mint (optional, for decoration and a fresh taste)

Steps for preparing quince dish

1. Wash and prepare the quinces
The first step is to ensure that the quinces are well washed. Use a soft brush to clean the skin. Then, cut them into medium-thick slices – not too thick, so they cook evenly, but not too thin, so they don't fall apart.

2. Sauté the quinces
In a large pan, heat the oil over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the quince slices. Sauté them for 5-7 minutes, gently turning them on both sides until they become golden. This step will enhance the aroma of the quinces and add a pleasant texture.

3. Add water
After the quinces have browned, add enough water to cover them. Let them boil over medium heat for 5 minutes, allowing them to release their juices and become soft, but not completely broken apart.

4. Prepare the caramel
In another pan, add the 5-6 tablespoons of sugar. Let it melt over low heat, stirring constantly until it turns golden and has a syrupy consistency. If the quinces are more sour, feel free to add a little more sugar to achieve the desired taste.

5. Thickening
Mix the flour with a small amount of water to create a paste without lumps. Add this mixture over the quinces, gently stirring so as not to break the slices. Continue cooking for 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and coats the quinces.

6. Finalizing and serving
Turn off the heat and add the chopped fresh mint, which will add a fresh taste and flavor to the dish. You can enjoy this dish warm or cold, and the combination of sweet and sour will delight any palate.

Serving suggestions

Quince dish can be served plain or alongside a portion of Greek yogurt for a creamy contrast. Additionally, a drizzle of honey on top will add a touch of natural sweetness.

Nutritional benefits

Quinces are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them excellent for the immune system. They are also low in calories, making them ideal for those who want to enjoy a dessert without feeling guilty. A serving of quince dish has about 150 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits instead of quinces?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or apples, but the cooking time may vary.

2. What can I do with leftover quince dish?
You can store it in the refrigerator and use it as a filling for pies or cakes.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes, the recipe is already plant-based, but make sure to use unrefined sugar.

4. How can I enhance it?
For a more exotic flavor, you can add cinnamon or vanilla during cooking.

5. What drinks pair well with it?
Quince dish pairs perfectly with herbal tea or sweet white wine.

Now that you have all the necessary details, all that's left is to try this delicious quince dish recipe! It is not only a tasty choice but also an opportunity to connect with culinary traditions and the natural flavors of this wonderful fruit. Enjoy your meal!