Preparation:
This start came from Kirbysville in deep East Texas. It is a magic potion that must be handled with respect. When the start was given to me, there was one condition about sharing with others. The one to whom you give this fruit must be a worthy friend. You must never let the content of this jar get below 1 to 1 1/2 cups or the fermentation will stop. This is important. Every two weeks you may add 1 CUP OF SUGAR and 1 CUP OF CANNED FRUIT in this order: 1 CUP SLICED PINEAPPLE TIDBITS 1 CUP SLICED PEACHES, CUT IN HALF 1 CUP SLICED (HALVED) MARASCHINO CHERRIES You must not add any oftener than 2 weeks, but you may divide into two portions. I would suggest dividing just before adding fruit and sugar. Say you have 3 cups of fruit and wish to divide. Wait until the day to add sugar and fruit. Then divide into 2 portions and then add sugar and fruit to both portions. I like to keep 2 or 3 jars going all the time and that way I can have some to use and some to give away occasionally to a worthy friend. This fruit is very good spooned over ice cream or orange sherbert. It is also good on plain cake, and you will find many other uses for it. Since it is rather unusual, it is a wonderful conversation piece when you have company. I keep mine in plain view and people are always interested in it. It is also a very easy dessert and rather elegant, too. As to where it is kept and how - never, never refrigerate. Rather keep the fruit in a warmish place - close to your oven or range top. Never put a lid on tightly or it might explode, or so I was told. The apothecary jars are just right because there is room for expansion since the lids just move up a bit with pressure from the inside. You must stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve. I hope you will enjoy this, and will have fun with it, too, and this of us when you use it. P.S. Also nice served with meat. |
