The History of Dulce de Membrillo
The dulce de membrillo, also known as quince cheese, is a sweet, thick jelly made from the pulp of the quince fruit. This dessert has a rich history dating back to the Roman times when it was used as a form of sustenance during long journeys. The tradition of making this sweet delicacy was carried forward by the Spanish and has since become a staple in many Spanish households.
The Quince Fruit
The quince fruit, or membrillo fruit as it is known in Spain, is a bright yellow fruit when ripe. It has a unique aroma and its flavor is sweet yet slightly tart. The fruit is high in pectin, which makes it ideal for making jellies and jams.
Making Quince Jelly
The process of making quince jelly or dulce de membrillo is a labor of love. It involves washing and chopping the quince fruit, boiling it until it becomes soft, and then mashing it into a pulp. The pulp is then combined with sugar and lemon juice and cooked slowly until it thickens into a jelly-like consistency.
Dulce de Membrillo Recipe
Here’s a simple dulce de membrillo recipe you can try at home:
- Wash and chop 2 kg of quince fruit.
- Place the chopped quince in a large pot, cover with water, and boil until soft.
- Mash the quince into a pulp and measure it. For every cup of pulp, add a cup of sugar.
- Add the sugar to the pulp along with the juice of one lemon.
- Cook the mixture on low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens and turns a deep orange color.
- Pour the mixture into a mold and let it cool.
- Once cool, cut the dulce de membrillo into slices and enjoy!
Variations, Tips, and Tricks
While the traditional quince jelly recipe is quite straightforward, there are several variations you can try. Some people like to add spices like cinnamon or vanilla to enhance the flavor. Others prefer to add a splash of brandy or other spirits for an adult twist.
One important tip when making quince jelly is to stir the mixture constantly while it’s cooking to prevent it from burning. Also, be patient. The cooking process can take a while, but the result is well worth the wait!
Conclusion
Whether you’re a fan of desserts or just looking to try something new, dulce de membrillo is a sweet treat that’s sure to impress. Its rich history and unique flavor make it a standout among sweets. So why not give it a try? You might just find your new favorite dessert!
Dulce de Membrillo: How to Follow A Sweet Tradition
Ingredients
- 4 Large quinces
- 4 cups Granulated sugar
- 1 Cinnamon stick (optional)
- 1 Lemon (for juice)
- Water
Instructions
- Prepare the Quinces:Wash and peel the quinces. Remove the cores and seeds.Cut the quinces into small, uniform-sized pieces.
- Cook the Quinces:Place the quince pieces in a large pot and cover them with water.Add the juice of one lemon to prevent the quinces from browning.Optionally, add a cinnamon stick for flavor.Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook until the quinces are tender. This may take about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Strain and Puree:Once the quinces are soft, strain them, discarding the liquid and cinnamon stick.Puree the cooked quinces using a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Cooking the Paste:In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the quince puree and sugar.Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring continuously to prevent sticking.Continue cooking until the mixture thickens and starts to pull away from the sides of the pot. This may take around 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Testing for Doneness:To check if the dulce de membrillo is ready, spoon a small amount onto a cold plate. If it sets and holds its shape, it's done.
- Cooling and Storage:Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture cool slightly.Transfer the dulce de membrillo to a mold or dish lined with parchment paper.Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating.
- Serving:Once chilled and set, you can cut the dulce de membrillo into squares or slices. It pairs well with cheese, crackers, or can be enjoyed on its own.
