Preserved autumn fruits

Babiche Martens

Buying bulk fruit can be daunting so get the children involved in helping to peel the fruit. I like to add a little extra flavour to my bottling; star anise with plums, lime with feijoas. I love peaches just in their delicate syrup. They are yummy served with vanilla ice cream.

Ingredients

4 kgs	Mixed fruit, peeled (optional), stones removed, eg plums, pears, tamarillos, feijoas (Main)
1	Lemon
1 ⅕ Ltr	Water
2 cups	Sugar

Directions

1. If fruit needs peeling, plunge into boiling water for 30 seconds. Remove and cool in cold water before peeling. Place in water with a squeeze of lemon to stop them from browning (not necessary for plums).
2. Place water and sugar in a large pot and bring to a simmer to dissolve sugar. Add fruit and poach for 10-15 minutes until tender, but not mushy.
3. Sterilise jars before filling with fruit. Bottle while hot.
4. Store in a cool place ready for use.