5 : do you like mincemeat?

...do you like mince pies? some people hate mincemeat, some love it.

I fall into the latter camp, and this year decided to make my own, so that I could just put in things that we like.

the recipe is adapted from the earlier version of this book - but outside of the bulk of the raisins that I bought in especially - most other ingredients were already in the house.  I also thought it was quite an involved thing to make, but actually this is so simple and will take about 20 minutes- half an hour..

This version is good for vegetarians and gluten intolerant as it does not contain suet, or veggie suet which often contains wheat - it's made with a little dairy free margarine ('Pure' sunflower) and so is also Vegan.

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Mincemeat (which is also vegan/dairy free)

(makes approx 4 jam jars worth: 1 jar is approx 6 mince pies)

1.5 lbs (675g) mixed dried fruit - (I used mainly raisins and added some favourites - dates, apricots,cranberries all chopped up).

10oz (275g) grated apple (approx 4-5 apples)

4oz (125g) chopped nuts (walnuts, or mixed nuts with brazils,pecans etc - chop small or whizz in processor)

2 tablespoons marmalade

2 tablespoons golden syrup

2oz (50g) brown/demerara sugar

2 teaspoons mixed spice (or make up your own blend eg with cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger)

juice (and rind if liked) of a lemon

2 tablespoons each of brandy and sherry (or substitute wih a favourite alternative)

2oz (50g) melted (dairy free) margarine (or butter for non-vegan)

Add all the ingredients to a bowl more or less in order given (I grated the apple last and added the lemon to prevent it browning).  Leave to stand in covered bowl in fridge, stir occasionally - at least several hours/overnight before putting into jars.  

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Make into mince pies using the gluten + dairy free shortcrust recipe from last year - note the pastry recipe is not vegan as contains egg - but you could experiment!  I've had so much positive feedback about this pastry recipe - really crumbly and short, but holds together well.

Hold the picture of the mince pie under your chin to see if you like mincemeat - alternatively leave me a comment, or let me know if you try either of these recipes and enjoy! x

Comments

[Gina]

My mouth is watering!