What is Quince Paste?
Quince paste, also known as quince cheese or membrillo, is a sweet and fragrant spread made from quince fruit. It has a dense and jelly-like consistency, making it perfect for spreading on crackers or pairing with cheese. Quince paste is a traditional delicacy in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines, and it is now gaining popularity worldwide.
Why Use Bimby?
Bimby, also known as Thermomix, is a versatile kitchen appliance that can handle a wide range of cooking tasks. It combines multiple functionalities such as chopping, blending, cooking, and more, all in one machine. When making quince paste, using a Bimby simplifies the process, saving you time and effort. Furthermore, Bimby’s precise temperature control ensures that your quince paste is cooked perfectly every time.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds of quince fruit
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 lemon
- Water
Instructions:
- Wash and peel the quince fruit. Cut them into quarters and remove the seeds.
- Place the quince pieces into the Bimby bowl and add enough water to cover them.
- Close the Bimby lid and set the machine to cook at 100°C for 20 minutes.
- Once the quince is cooked and soft, drain the water and discard it.
- Add the cooked quince to the Bimby bowl and blend it until smooth.
- Squeeze the juice from the lemon and add it to the bowl.
- Add the sugar to the bowl and mix everything together.
- Set the Bimby to cook at 100°C for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- After 45 minutes, reduce the temperature to 90°C and cook for another 30 minutes.
- Once the quince paste reaches a thick consistency, transfer it to a mold or a container lined with parchment paper.
- Allow the quince paste to cool and set at room temperature for several hours.
- After it has set, cut the quince paste into desired shapes and sizes.
- Your homemade quince paste is now ready to be enjoyed!
Tips and Variations:
Here are some additional tips and variations to further enhance your quince paste:
- For an extra burst of flavor, you can add spices such as cinnamon or vanilla to the quince paste mixture.
- If you prefer a smoother texture, you can strain the blended quince mixture before continuing with the recipe.
- Quince paste can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for several weeks.
- Pair your quince paste with a variety of cheeses, such as Manchego or brie, for a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors.
So next time you’re in the mood for a unique and delicious recipe, give homemade quince paste a try with your Bimby. Your taste buds will thank you!