Ingredients

1 lb cooking apple , peeled cored and finely chopped
8 ounces shredded suet
12 ounces raisins
8 ounces sultanas
8 ounces currants
8 ounces mixed peel , finely chopped
12 ounces soft dark brown sugar
2 oranges , juice and zest of
2 lemons , juice and zest of
2 ounces almonds , cut into slivers
4 teaspoons mixed spice or 4 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice
1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon grated nutmeg
6 tablespoons brandy
Mincemeat has been a part of British Christmas traditions for centuries, dating back to the medieval times when meat was used in the recipe. Today, mincemeat is a sweet and spiced mixture of fruit, suet, and spices, often used as a filling for pies and tarts. Homemade mincemeat is easy to make and allows you to customize the ingredients to your liking, from the choice of fruits to the amount of brandy used. Make a batch of mincemeat ahead of the holiday season and enjoy it in pies or tarts, or gift it to friends and family for a taste of Christmas.

Instructions

1.In a large saucepan, add the chopped apples along with the orange and lemon zest and juice.
2.Heat the saucepan on medium heat until the apples are soft, stirring occasionally.
3.Add the shredded suet, raisins, sultanas, currants, mixed peel, and soft brown sugar to the pan.
4.Mix well and continue cooking on low heat until the mixture is syrupy and has thickened.
5.Stir in the mixed spice, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and add the slivered almonds.
6.Take off the heat and let cool slightly.
7.Add the brandy and mix well.
8.Transfer the mincemeat to sterilized jars and let it mature for at least two weeks before using.

PROS

Homemade mincemeat tastes better than store-bought versions and can be customized to your liking.

The recipe is easy to follow and makes enough to last through the holiday season.

Mincemeat contains fruit and nuts, providing a good source of fiber and essential nutrients.

CONS

Mincemeat can be high in sugar and fat, so it should be enjoyed in moderation.

Homemade mincemeat takes some time to prepare and requires advance planning.

HEALTH & BENEFITS

Mincemeat contains apples, which are a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants.
Raisins and sultanas provide extra fiber and iron, while currants are rich in vitamin C.
Nutmeg and cinnamon are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties.
However, the high sugar and fat content in mincemeat can offset these benefits.

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