Spiced Plums and Peaches    Veg   CD  ACC

Vegetarian  Fruit  Cold   Accompaniment   Conserve  Preserve  Preserves  Preserving

Ingredients
450g/1lb Sugar

300ml/10 fl.oz. White Wine Vinegar

1 teasp Whole Allspice Berries

1 x 5cm/2 inch Cinnamon Stick

2.5cm/1 inch Fresh Ginger Root, peeled and thinly sliced

450g/1lb Peaches, halved and stoned

450g/1lb Plums, halved and stoned

Instructions

1. Prepare the jars (see notes below). Use larger jars.

2. Place the sugar, vinegar, allspice, cinnamon and ginger in a saucepan and heat gently, stirring to dissolve the sugar.

3. Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15 minutes.

4. Add the fruit, gradually bring to the boil, stirring, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. 

5. Remove the pan from the heat and remove the fruit with a slotted spoon, reserving the cooking liquid. Discard the cinnamon stick. Fill the jars to within 2.5cm/1 inch of the tops.

5.  Boil the reserved syrup for a few minutes to slightly reduce then pour over the fruit in the jars to within 1cm/1/2 inch of the tops.

7. Cover, seal and label (see notes below).

Notes:    See also General preparations

Jars - Use jars which are free from cracks, chips or flaws. Prepare the jars by washing well in warm soapy water and rinsing thoroughly. Dry the jars in a cool oven (140C, 275F, Gas Mark 1).  Fill whilst still warm.

Filling the jars –  Fill with the fruit to within 2.5cm/1 inch of the top. Pour over the preserving liquid (vinegar,  alcohol etc.) to within 1cm/ ½ inch of the top, making sure the fruit are completely covered with the liquid. Cover with a waxed disc (wax side down), Immediately  place a cellophane disc over the top then cover with a screw top lid.

Storage – Store in a cool dark place for 2-3 months before consuming.

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