Though I'll give the basic recipe, please remember there is room for virtually endless variety. Every year I look forward to preparing this recipe with its uniquely delicious aroma. I also encourage you to peek into your cupboards and clear out packages that have just a little dried fruit, or perhaps even some preserves not favored for use on toast. I've found such additions to our mincemeat only seem to add to its flavor.
4 | Apple(s)Good sized, a type you would use for pies, such as Cortland, peeled, pared, and cut into approximately one-half inch cubes | |
1 | Pear(s)Peeled or not, pared, and cut into approximately one-half inch cubes | |
1 | Orange(s)Grate its zest and then squeeze its juice, and save both | |
3 | cups | Apple CiderFresh and full-bodied, if possible |
¼ | cup | White Sugar |
½ | cup | Dark Brown SugarWell packed |
4 | tbsp | Unsalted Butter |
1 | cup | CranberriesWashed and drained |
1 | cup | Raisins, Black |
14 | fluid oz. | Cherries, TartFound in the canned fruit section of some supermarkets; substitute as needed, but these should be the tart variety; may be omitted |
½ | cup | Orange, Candied Peel |
1 | tbsp | Cinnamon, Ground |
¾ | tsp | Clove, Ground |
½ | tsp | Allspice |
½ | tsp | Nutmeg, GratedFrom the fresh nut is preferred |
¾ | tsp | Salt |
1 | pinch | Black Pepper |
¾ | cup | Raisins, Golden |
1 | Find a good large pot or sauce pan. A large pot is important because there is some splattering during the simmering process. |
2 | Simply put all the above ingredients in the pot, set it over a burner, uncovered, with just enough heat to allow a slow simmer. |
3 |
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4 | As far as additions, this year I'll be adding some dried rhubard, and dried stawberry because I found them not very toothsome as is. I suspect, however, that they'll make wonderful additions to our holiday mincemeat. That's what I mean by being creative, and resourceful as well. |
5 | This recipe makes plenty for both a good-sized Thanksgiving pie, and also our Christmas holiday filled cookies. I'm enjoying just thinking about your preparing this wonderful recipe, a very fun way to anticipate the coming holidays. |