Blackberry Mincemeat

Its Monday again.. the weeks are flying by

Rain is forecast later today... and will continue for the rest of the week... hopefully. 

Photo circa 1940

The laundry is already hanging on the line... with just one load waiting to go out. I hope it dries quickly as Im really not a fan of drying indoors

Two years ago I planted a blackberry cutting in a large tub in the corner of my Victory Garden. It grew very slowly and produced nothing. But this year it really flourished and Ive managed a small harvest of beautiful berries

I was wondering what to make. Jam maybe? Or possibly a pie. Thinking ahead I decided to make some delicious Blackberry Mincemeat ready for my Mince Pies this Christmas

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This recipe from "Woman" magazine and just look at that amazing colour. It is beautifully rich and flavourful and tastes like a cross between traditional mincemeat and apple pie filing. It made three jars...just enough for my pies

1 lb blackberries (or mixed berries). Use fresh, frozen or bottled.
4 cooking apples
4 oz (100 g) butter, margarine or shredded suet
4 oz (100 g) of chopped mixed nuts
1/2 lb (200 g) of dried mixed fruit

2 – 3 rounded dessertspoons of soft brown sugar 
8-10 drops almond essence
2 rounded teaspoons of British mixed spice (recipe here )
Honey or golden syrup

• Chop up apples 
• Place in saucepan with a spoonful of water and soft brown sugar 
• Simmer until apple is soft 
• Add berries, mixed spice and almond essence 
• Simmer on low for another 15 minutes stirring occasionally 
• Switch off heat.
• Add your margarine/butter/suet 
• Stir in until melted
• Add chopped nuts and dried fruit plus 
• You can also add an optional drop of whisky or brandy.
• Stir well 

• Carefully spoon into clean, sterilized jam jars
• Leave a 1/2 inch headspace at the top of the jar 
• Drizzle the top with a little warm honey or golden syrup 
• Clean the rim of the jar before adding the lid to ensure a perfect seal 
• Water bath process for 15 minutes.. or
• Store in the fridge until needed to make your Christmas Mince Pies