Excellent Lemon Mincemeat is a remarkable fusion of sweet and tangy flavors, creating a condiment that has stood the test of time. This unique recipe showcases the transformation of lemons and other ingredients into a delightful and versatile mincemeat. The history of Excellent Lemon Mincemeat takes us back to eras when preserving the bounty of seasonal produce was essential for creating flavorful dishes year-round.

Mincemeat has a long history that dates back to medieval times when it was a mixture of finely chopped meat, fruits, spices, and spirits, often used in pies. Over time, the meat component became optional, and mincemeat evolved into a sweet and spiced mixture primarily consisting of fruits and spices.

Excellent Lemon Mincemeat is a testament to this evolution. This particular recipe showcases the inventive use of lemons, apples, candied lemon peel, currants, raisins, and an array of aromatic spices. The addition of Crisco, a type of shortening, contributes a rich and creamy texture to the mincemeat.

During times when fresh fruits were available, homemakers would prepare mincemeat to preserve the flavors of the season for future use. This practice allowed households to enjoy the taste of summer and fall in the form of pies and tartlets during colder months.

INGREDIENTS

• 1/2 cupful Crisco (shortening)
• 2 large lemons
• 4 apples
• 1/4 lb. chopped candied lemon peel
• 1 lb. currants
• 1-3/4 cupfuls sugar
• 1 teaspoonful powdered cinnamon
• 1 teaspoonful powdered ginger
• 1/2 teaspoonful grated nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoonful powdered allspice
• 1/4 teaspoonful powdered cloves
• 1 teaspoonful salt
• 1/2 cupful seeded raisins
• 1/2 cupful chopped nut meats

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Extract the juice from the lemons and remove the seeds.
2. Place the lemons in a saucepan, cover them with cold water, and boil until they feel quite tender. Change the water at least twice during boiling.
3. Drain the boiled lemons and pound the peel to create a paste-like consistency.
4. Core, peel, and chop the apples. Add the chopped apples to the lemon peel paste.
5. To the lemon and apple mixture, add the chopped candied lemon peel, currants, raisins, chopped nut meats, salt, powdered cinnamon, powdered ginger, grated nutmeg, powdered allspice, powdered cloves, and sugar.
6. Incorporate the Crisco to add richness to the mixture.
7. Stir in the lemon juice to enhance the citrusy flavor of the mincemeat.
8. Place the prepared mincemeat into a jar and cover it to preserve its freshness.
9. This mincemeat can be used to make pies and tartlets.

NOTE:

• This recipe yields enough Excellent Lemon Mincemeat to make four pies—a testament to its versatility and appeal. Excellent Lemon Mincemeat allows us to savor the flavors of multiple ingredients working in harmony, reminiscent of preserving the bounty of harvest for enjoyment throughout the year. The mincemeat’s sweet and tangy character can transform simple pastries into delectable treats that capture the essence of culinary history.