When it comes to quince, there are so many delicious things you can make with this seasonal fruit. From jellies and jams to pastes and desserts, the possibilities are endless. As a sommelier and brewer, I've had the pleasure of working with quince in various ways and I must say, it's a truly versatile fruit.
One of my favorite things to make with quince is quince jelly. The natural pectin in quince makes it perfect for creating a thick and flavorful jelly. I like to cook down the quince with some sugar and lemon juice until it reaches a gel-like consistency. The result is a sweet and tangy jelly that pairs perfectly with toast or cheese.
Quince jam is another delicious option. Similar to jelly, quince jam is made by cooking down the fruit with sugar and lemon juice. However, with jam, you keep some of the fruit chunks intact, giving it a chunkier texture. I love spreading quince jam on freshly baked scones or using it as a filling for pastries.
If you're looking for something a little more unique, you have to try making Spanish quince paste, also known as membrillo. This thick paste is made by cooking down quince with sugar until it becomes a thick, spreadable consistency. Membrillo is traditionally served with cheese, particularly Manchego, and it creates a beautiful balance of sweet and savory flavors.
Quince can also be used in desserts. One of my personal favorites is quince crumble. I like to slice the quince and toss it with some sugar and spices, then top it with a crumbly mixture of butter, flour, oats, and sugar. Baking it until the top is golden brown and the fruit is soft and caramelized creates a comforting and delicious dessert.
Another dessert option is quince tart. I love making a simple tart crust and filling it with a mixture of cooked quince and a custard-like filling. The contrast between the sweet and slightly tart quince and the creamy filling is absolutely divine.
Aside from these classic recipes, quince can also be used in savory dishes. I've used quince in chutneys and relishes, adding a sweet and tangy element to dishes like roasted meats or cheese platters.
Quince is a truly versatile fruit that can be used in a variety of delicious recipes. Whether you're making jellies, jams, pastes, or desserts, the unique flavor and texture of quince adds a special touch to any dish. So next time you come across this seasonal fruit, don't hesitate to get creative in the kitchen and explore the wonderful world of quince.