This is a very simple recipe and is great for any dish, particularly great with soft cheeses.
When made please allow it to "mature" for 1 month before using.
Also substitute ANY dried/fresh fruit you have available but keep the vinegar and sugar amounts the same.
this recipe makes 4 cups (2 pounds and can easily be doubled)
1 large very ripe banana mashed
1 large apple peeled, cored and chopped (sweet or tart apple)
1 large onion peeled and chopped fine
4 cloves garlic smashed and minced
1/2 cup each ( 8ozs) dried apricots, prunes, mixed glace fruit or citron peel and dates
2 tbsp minced candied ginger OR THE ZEST OF 2 LEMONS OR 2 INCHES GINGER ROOT GRATED FINE.
1 CUP CIDER VINEGAR
1 CUP packed Light brown sugar
1/2 cup cold water
1/2 tsp each of the following:
cayenne, allspice, sea salt, ground coriander or cardamon
In a large stainless steel or enamel saucepan:
ADD THE BANANA, APPLE, ONIONS, GARLIC, ALL DRIED FRUITS, VINEGAR AND WATER.
Gradually bring to boil, and boil gently for 10 mins uncovered stirring occasionally.
Add the spices, salt and sugar and boil gently for a further 10 mins or until thickened.
Pour into hot sterilized canning jars, to 1/2 inch from rim.
Secure lids and process in boiling water (the jars have to be covered in boiling water)
10 mins for 1/2 pint jars
15 mins for pint jars
Remove with tongs and place on a wooden board and wait for the lids to pop, they will indent, showing a vacuum, then tightly secure.
Store in a cool dark place for a minimum of 1 month before serving.
Please do not store in the fridge unless they have been opened.
Variations add hot sauce or chilies, and fresh herbs can be added before the jars are placed in the boiling water.
This is great for any holiday or celebration meal as well as snacks
