Quince

• Making quince paste (membrillo): Quince paste, also known as membrillo, is a traditional Spanish confection made by cooking quince with sugar until it forms a thick, sliceable paste. This sweet and slightly tart paste is often served with cheese, particularly Manchego, as a delightful appetizer or dessert.
• Creating quince jam or jelly: The high pectin content of quince makes it ideal for making homemade jams and jellies. Quince jam has a beautiful rosy color and a unique flavor that complements toast, scones, or yogurt. Learn how to make quince jam to preserve the fruit's flavor for year-round enjoyment.
• Baking in quince desserts: Quince can be baked into pies, tarts, and crumbles, adding a distinctive flavor and texture. Combining quince with apples or pears in baked goods creates a harmonious blend of flavors. Explore quince recipes for pies and other autumn desserts.
• Poaching quince for compotes and sauces: Poaching quince in wine or spiced syrup transforms it into a tender, flavorful compote that can be served as a dessert or accompaniment to roasted meats. Discover simple quince poaching methods to create a versatile fruit dish.
• Adding quince to stews and tagines: In Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, quince is sometimes added to savory stews and tagines, lending a subtle sweetness and fruity aroma to the dish. The quince tenderizes during cooking and infuses the sauce with its unique flavor. Learn how to add quince to your next slow-cooked meal for a surprising depth of flavor.

• Rich in antioxidants, helping to combat free radicals and reduce oxidative stress.
• Good source of dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regularity.
• Contains vitamin C, boosting the immune system and supporting collagen production.
• May help regulate blood sugar levels due to its fiber content and potential impact on insulin sensitivity.
• Anti-inflammatory properties might contribute to overall wellness.
• Provides essential minerals like potassium, important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

Fresh quince should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place, ideally in a single layer to prevent bruising. They can last for several weeks at room temperature, but storing them in the refrigerator will extend their shelf life further, up to two months. Once cut, quince flesh oxidizes quickly, so rub the cut surfaces with lemon juice or wrap tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Cooked quince can be refrigerated for up to a week or frozen for longer storage.