Ingredients:
- 4 large quince fruits
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1 teaspoon of lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of honey
- 1 vanilla bean
Instructions:
Step 1: Begin by preparing the quince fruits. Wash them thoroughly and remove the skin using a vegetable peeler. Once peeled, cut them into small cubes, discarding the core and seeds.
Step 2: Place the quince cubes in a large saucepan and add enough water to cover them. Add in the sugar, lemon juice, honey, and the seeds of the vanilla bean to the saucepan.
Step 3: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the quince becomes tender and easily mashable.
Step 4: As the quince mixture starts to thicken, continue stirring frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. You’ll notice the color changing to a beautiful shade of light amber as it cooks.
Step 5: After the mixture has thickened and has a jam-like consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes.
Step 6: While the cotognata is still warm, pour it into a rectangular or square baking dish lined with parchment paper. Smooth the top with a spoon or spatula to create an even surface.
Step 7: Allow the cotognata to cool completely at room temperature. Once it’s cool, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible. This will ensure it sets perfectly.
Step 8: Once fully chilled, remove the cotognata from the baking dish and cut it into small square or diamond shapes. Dust them with icing sugar to add a touch of sweetness and enhance their appearance.
Step 9: Your Lecce-style cotognata is now ready to be served! Enjoy these delightful treats with a cup of espresso or offer them as a charming homemade gift to your family and friends.
With its rich history and distinctive flavor, Lecce-style cotognata is a true gem of Italian cuisine. By following these simple steps, you can create your own batch of this traditional delight and experience the authentic taste of Italy. So put on your apron and get ready to embark on a sweet journey to Southern Italy!