Membrillo (quince paste)

Membrillo (Quince Paste)

Membrillo, or quince paste, is a traditional Spanish delicacy known for its sweet, floral aroma and rich, amber color. This delightful treat pairs beautifully with cheese, especially Manchego, and is a staple in many Mediterranean cuisines. Its unique flavor and firm, jelly-like texture make it a special addition to any cheese board or dessert platter.

Serving Size and Yield

Makes approximately 2 pounds of quince paste, serving about 16 people.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 20 minutes

Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes

Cooling Time: 4 hours

Total Time: 5 hours 50 minutes

Ingredients

• 4 large quinces (about 2 pounds), peeled, cored, and chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 lemon, juiced
• Water, enough to cover the quinces

Instructions

1. Prepare the quinces by peeling, coring, and chopping them into small pieces.
2. Place the chopped quinces in a large pot and cover them with water. Add the lemon juice to the pot.
3. Boil the quinces over medium heat until they are soft, about 30 minutes. Drain the quinces and let them cool slightly.
4. Blend the cooked quinces into a smooth puree using a food processor or blender.
5. Return the quince puree to the pot and add the sugar. Stir well to combine.
6. Cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens and turns a deep amber color, about 1 hour.
7. Pour the thickened quince paste into a greased or parchment-lined baking dish, smoothing the top with a spatula.
8. Cool the membrillo at room temperature for at least 4 hours, or until it is firm enough to slice.
9. Slice the membrillo into desired shapes and serve with cheese or as a sweet treat.

Additional Notes

For a spiced variation, consider adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the pot while cooking the quinces. You can also substitute half of the sugar with honey for a different flavor profile.

Nutritional Information

Per serving (1/16 of the recipe): Calories: 120, Total Fat: 0g, Saturated Fat: 0g, Cholesterol: 0mg, Sodium: 0mg, Total Carbohydrates: 31g, Dietary Fiber: 2g, Sugars: 29g, Protein: 0g

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