What is Quince?
Quince is a small, tart fruit that originates from the Middle East and Central Asia. It’s a member of the same family as apples and pears and grows in areas with cool climates. Just like apples and pears, Quinces can be eaten raw or cooked. It has a flavor like a cross between an apple and a pear, with a slightly bitter, sour taste. It’s most popularly used in jams, jellies, and pies, but can also be added to chutneys or used as a side dish. Quince is a unique and tasty fruit that’s definitely worth adding to your grocery list.
What does Quince taste like?
When eaten raw, Quince can be crunchy but still quite tough. Its flavor is like no other fruit – tart, astringent, and almost floral. The flavor of cooked Quince would be familiar to many – it has a texture similar to cooked apples and pears, but with an unmistakeable floral overtone that’s sweet and tart. As such, it can be used to add a unique depth of flavor to jams, jellies, and pies. Quinces can also be dried and boiled to make a fragrant syrup that goes great over ice cream or desserts. All in all, Quince is an incredibly versatile and delicious fruit – be sure to give it a try!
What dishes do you find Quince in?
The uses of quince are vast and varied. It has been cherished since its inception in the Middle East and Central Asia and has changed over time depending on culture and cuisine. Quinces are famously used to make jellies and jams, but it can also be added to chutneys or even used to make compotes. For those looking for a savory meal, cooked quince can be added to casseroles, worked into a tagine or stew, or paired with meats to make an elegant side dish. Another popular way to enjoy quince is poached in syrup and served as a dessert. No matter how you choose to serve it, quince often brings a unique elegance to any recipe.