Q is for Quince

The Quince’s cultivation goes back to ancient Greece and Rome, when it was a symbol of love and fertility. Quince is not a fruit I have eaten raw, but my French friend did give me some delicious quince jam.

In Britain, America and most of Europe jams are used as fillings and spreads, in some parts of the world they are served separately as sweetmeats, eaten on their own. Quinces have always been part of this tradition, and it is from Marmelo, which is Portuguese for quince, that the word marmalade is derived.
Quince is the fruit of a deciduous tree of the Rosaceae family. Its blossoms are an attractive pink colour.

In appearance, the fruit is aromatic and bright golden-yellow, looking similar to pears in shape. The ripe quince is hard, tart and astringent. They can be eaten raw, but particularly in Europe, they are usually made into jam, cheese, or alcoholic drinks.

🍐 Quinces are nutritious fruits containing Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Iron, potassium, magnesium, and copper. They are a high-fibre food and an excellent source of antioxidants.

🍐 Quinces can be eaten raw but are very tart and the skin is tough. The taste can be compared to a cross between a pear and a tart apple. Cooked they are softer with a sweeter, more delicate flavour.

🍐 As with apricot and peach stones quince seeds contain hydrogen cyanide which must be removed before cooking and not eaten.

🍐  Quince’s vitamin C and fibre help support a healthy immune system. They may also have antibacterial properties.

Have you ever eaten a quince? I would be delighted to hear from anyone who loves them, along with your favourite use of quince. They certainly have a rich history of use in folk remedies and are a nutritious fruit!

Live with joy and health 💚
Elizabeth Beetham