Have you ever spotted a medlar fruit and wondered how to use it? This unique fruit changes in flavour as it ripens and has been loved for centuries. Whether you want to make a classic medlar jam, try a homemade medlar wine, or bake a comforting medlar crumble, this fruit is a great addition to your kitchen. Below, I’ve put together some easy recipes to help you enjoy the wonderful taste of medlar!
1. Medlar Jam: A Sweet and Tangy Spread
One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy medlar is by making jam. It’s perfect for toast, pairing with cheese, or as a filling for pastries.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) bletted medlar fruit.
- 500 g (1 lb) sugar
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- 1 apple (optional, for extra pectin)
Method:
- Peel and chop the medlar fruit, removing the seeds.
- Simmer the fruit with a little water until soft (about 20 minutes).
- Mash the fruit and strain if you prefer a smoother jam.
- Add sugar and lemon juice, then cook for another 30 minutes until thick.
- Test if it’s set by placing a spoonful on a cold plate. If it wrinkles, it’s ready.
- Pour into sterilised jars and seal.
This jam has a rich, sweet-tart flavour that’s great for breakfast or as a homemade gift!
2. Medlar Jelly: Smooth and Perfect for Scones
If you prefer a clear, smooth spread, medlar jelly is a great choice. It’s an elegant addition to any breakfast table.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) medlar fruit
- 500 g (1 lb) sugar
- 1 lemon (juiced)
- Water
- 1 packet of pectin (optional)
Method:
- Simmer the medlar fruit in water until soft.
- Strain the fruit to collect the juice.
- Measure the juice and add an equal amount of sugar.
- Boil the juice and sugar together, adding lemon juice.
- Add pectin if needed to help it set.
- Once thickened, pour into sterilised jars.
This jelly is perfect for spreading on scones, toast, or even drizzling over desserts like cheesecake.
3. Medlar Wine: A Unique Homemade Drink
For those who love a bit of adventure in the kitchen, medlar wine is a fun and rewarding recipe. The natural sweetness of medlar makes for a delicious homemade drink.
Ingredients:
- 2 kg (4.4 lbs) bletted medlar fruit
- 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
- 1 orange (optional)
- 1 kg (2.2 lbs) sugar
- 1 litre (4 cups) water
- 1 packet of wine yeast (optional)
Method:
- Peel and chop the medlar fruit, then place it in a pot with water, lemon juice, and zest.
- Simmer for 30 minutes, mashing the fruit.
- Strain the juice and add sugar.
- If using wine yeast, add it now following the packet instructions.
- Cover and let it ferment for about a week, stirring daily.
- After a week, transfer the liquid to a fermentation vessel and let it ferment for 3–4 weeks.
- Once fermentation slows, bottle the wine and allow it to mature.
It takes some time, but the final product is a fruity, slightly tangy wine that’s well worth the wait!
4. Medlar Sauce: A Tasty Addition to Meals and Desserts
This versatile sauce is great with both savoury and sweet dishes, similar to cranberry sauce. Try it with roasted meats or drizzled over ice cream!
Ingredients:
- 500 g (1 lb) medlar fruit
- 100 g (½ cup) sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- ½ tsp ground cinnamon (optional)
- Pinch of salt
Method:
- Peel and chop the medlar fruit, removing the seeds.
- Cook with sugar and lemon juice for 15–20 minutes.
- Blend if you want a smoother sauce.
- Add cinnamon and salt, adjusting sweetness to taste.
- Serve warm over roasted meats or desserts.
This sauce is a great way to enjoy medlar in both sweet and savoury dishes!
5. Medlar Crumble: A Comforting Dessert
A warm medlar crumble is the perfect way to enjoy this unique fruit in a cosy, baked dish.
Ingredients:
- 500 g (1 lb) bletted medlar fruit
- 100 g (½ cup) sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 100 g (1 cup) flour
- 50 g (¼ cup) butter
- 50 g (¼ cup) oats
- 50 g (¼ cup) brown sugar
Method:
- Peel and chop the medlar fruit, removing the seeds.
- Toss with sugar and lemon juice, then place in a baking dish.
- Make the crumble topping by mixing flour, butter, oats, and brown sugar until it resembles breadcrumbs.
- Spread the crumble evenly over the fruit.
- Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 30–40 minutes until golden brown.
Serve warm with ice cream or custard for the ultimate treat!.
Final Thoughts: Enjoy Medlar in a New Way!
Medlar is a hidden gem in the fruit world—unique, versatile, and full of flavour. Whether you’re making jam, wine, or crumble, you’ll impress your friends and family with something truly special.
Next time you find this quirky fruit, give one of these recipes a go and explore its delicious potential!
Happy Cooking! Let me know which medlar recipe you try first in the comments below!
This simple yet delightful fruit salad is bound to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy!
For more tips, recipes, and fruit facts, visit Frutifyx.com!
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