Mincemeat is a classic treat that brings a touch of nostalgia to holiday baking, and None Such has been a favorite for years. I’ve always loved its rich blend of fruits and spices that makes pies and tarts truly special.
When I couldn’t find the original mincemeat during the festive season, I decided to create a copycat recipe that captures all those familiar flavors. It’s surprisingly easy to make at home and lets you customize it to your taste.
Whether you’re a seasoned baker or trying mincemeat for the first time, this copycat recipe is sure to impress. Let’s dive into how you can whip up this delicious mix in your own kitchen.
Ingredients
- 500g suet, finely chopped
- 200g golden raisins
- 150g currants
- 100g apples, peeled and finely chopped
- 100g candied orange peel, chopped
- 150g brown sugar
- Zest and juice of one large lemon
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- ½ teaspoon ground allspice
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 100ml brandy
- 50ml orange juice
Tools And Equipment
Creating the perfect None Such Mincemeat Copycat Recipe requires a few essential tools and equipment. Here’s what you’ll need to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cooking experience:
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large Mixing Bowl | Combining all ingredients thoroughly |
| Measuring Cups | Accurately measuring dried fruits, spices, and liquids |
| Measuring Spoons | Precisely measuring smaller ingredient quantities |
| Chef’s Knife | Finely chopping suet and other solid ingredients |
| Cutting Board | Providing a stable surface for chopping and prep work |
| Saucepan | Gently heating the mixture to meld flavors |
| Spoon or Spatula | Stirring the mincemeat as it cooks |
| Airtight Containers | Storing the finished mincemeat to preserve freshness |
Having these tools on hand will make the process seamless and help you achieve that rich, nostalgic flavor reminiscent of the original None Such mincemeat.
Make-Ahead Instructions
Preparing mincemeat ahead of time allows the flavors to deepen and meld beautifully. Here’s how I ensure my None Such Mincemeat Copycat Recipe is always ready for your holiday baking:
- Combine Ingredients
After chopping and measuring all your ingredients, mix them thoroughly in a large mixing bowl. Ensure the suet, dried fruits, spices, brandy, and orange juice are evenly distributed for consistent flavor.
- Marinate the Mixture
Transfer the mixed ingredients into an airtight container. I let the mincemeat marinate in the refrigerator for at least 24 hours. This resting period allows the spices to infuse the fruits, enhancing the overall taste.
- Adjust Consistency
After marinating, check the consistency of your mincemeat. If it seems too dry, add a splash more brandy or orange juice. If it’s too wet, incorporate a bit more suet or dried fruits. Adjusting ensures your mincemeat has the perfect texture for your recipes.
- Store Properly
Proper storage is key to maintaining flavor and freshness. Here are my storage guidelines:
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 weeks |
| Freezer | Up to 6 months |
Transfer the mincemeat into clean, airtight containers. Label them with the date to keep track of freshness.
- Freeze for Long-Term Storage
For extended storage, freeze the mincemeat in portioned containers. This makes it easy to thaw only what you need for your baking projects. I typically use freezer-safe glass jars or heavy-duty plastic containers to prevent freezer burn.
- Thaw Before Use
When ready to bake, move the frozen mincemeat to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This gradual thawing preserves the integrity of the flavors, ensuring your baked goods turn out delicious every time.
Directions
Ready to create your own None Such Mincemeat? Follow these simple steps to achieve that perfect blend of flavors.
Prepare The Ingredients
- Chop the Suet:
- Finely chop 500g of suet using a sharp chef’s knife.
- Prepare the Dried Fruits:
- Measure out 250g of raisins, 150g of currants, and 100g of mixed candied peel.
- Measure the Spices:
- Combine 2 teaspoons of mixed spice, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and ½ teaspoon of nutmeg.
- Mix the Liquids:
- Measure 100ml of brandy and 50ml of orange juice.
- Combine All Ingredients:
- In a large mixing bowl, add the chopped suet, dried fruits, candied peel, spices, brandy, and orange juice. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution.
Cook The Mincemeat
- Heat the Mixture:
- Transfer the mixture to a saucepan over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent sticking.
- Simmer:
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Consistency:
- If the mincemeat is too thick, add a little more orange juice. If it’s too thin, cook for an additional 5 minutes until desired consistency is reached.
- Taste and Adjust:
- Taste the mincemeat and adjust the spices or sweetness as needed to match your preference.
Cool And Store
- Cool Down:
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the mincemeat cool to room temperature.
- Transfer to Containers:
- Spoon the cooled mincemeat into airtight containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Refrigerate:
- Place the containers in the refrigerator and let the mincemeat marinate for at least 24 hours to enhance the flavors.
- Storage Options:
- Store the mincemeat in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or freeze it for up to six months. When ready to use, thaw frozen mincemeat in the refrigerator overnight to preserve its rich taste.
Storage And Shelf Life
Once I’ve perfected my None Such Mincemeat Copycat Recipe, proper storage ensures its rich flavors last throughout the holiday season. Here’s how I keep my mincemeat fresh and delicious:
Refrigeration
Storing mincemeat in the refrigerator is simple and keeps it ready for use in your favorite recipes.
- Transfer: After cooling, pour the mincemeat into airtight containers or mason jars. I prefer glass containers to maintain freshness.
- Seal: Ensure the containers are tightly sealed to prevent any odors from affecting the mincemeat.
- Label: Mark each container with the date to keep track of its freshness.
Refrigerator Storage Details:
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Refrigerator | Up to 3 weeks |
Freezing
For longer storage, freezing is an excellent option that preserves the mincemeat’s quality.
- Portion: Divide the mincemeat into smaller, manageable portions. This makes thawing easier when you need it.
- Package: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
- Label: Clearly label each package with the date to monitor its storage time.
Freezer Storage Details:
| Storage Method | Duration |
|---|---|
| Freezer | Up to 6 months |
When you’re ready to use frozen mincemeat, transfer it to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor, ensuring your mincemeat is just as delightful as when you first made it.
Tips for Maintaining Quality
- Consistency Check: Before using stored mincemeat, give it a good stir. If it’s too thick, add a splash of orange juice or brandy to reach your desired consistency.
- Taste Test: Letting the mincemeat rest in the fridge for a few days can enhance its flavors. Taste it before baking and adjust any seasoning if necessary.
- Avoid Contamination: Always use clean utensils when scooping out mincemeat to prevent introducing bacteria, which can reduce its shelf life.
By following these storage guidelines, you can enjoy the nostalgic and rich flavors of homemade None Such Mincemeat in all your holiday baking favorites.
Serving Suggestions
I love how versatile homemade None Such Mincemeat can be in your kitchen. Here are some of my favorite ways to incorporate it into your holiday and everyday dishes:
Classic Mince Pies
- Pastry Shells: Line your mince pie tins with shortcrust pastry.
- Fill: Spoon a generous amount of mincemeat into each shell.
- Top: Add another layer of pastry or opt for a lattice design.
- Bake: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy warm with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Traditional Christmas Pudding
- Mix-In: Incorporate a portion of mincemeat into your favorite pudding recipe.
- Steam: Follow your recipe’s steaming instructions to perfection.
- Decorate: Garnish with holly or a sprig of rosemary.
- Serve: Pair with brandy butter or custard for a festive touch.
Mincemeat Tarts
- Crust: Use ready-made tart shells for convenience.
- Filling: Fill each tart with a hearty spoonful of mincemeat.
- Bake: Heat in the oven until the crust is crisp and the filling is bubbling.
- Serve: Ideal as appetizers or dessert treats during gatherings.
Breakfast Boost
- Spread: Use mincemeat as a flavorful spread on toast or bagels.
- Pancakes: Add a spoonful to your pancake batter for a fruity twist.
- Oatmeal: Stir into morning oatmeal for added sweetness and texture.
- Yogurt: Top Greek yogurt with mincemeat and granola for a nutritious start.
Baking Enhancements
- Cakes: Swirl mincemeat into cake batter before baking for a rich flavor.
- Cookies: Fold into cookie dough for spiced fruit bursts in every bite.
- Scones: Incorporate into scone dough for a delightful breakfast or tea-time treat.
- Brownies: Add a layer of mincemeat between brownie layers for a unique dessert.
Savory Dishes
- Glaze: Mix mincemeat with balsamic vinegar and brush over roasted meats.
- Sauce: Combine with stock and herbs to create a savory glaze for poultry.
- Stuffing: Add to your stuffing mix for an extra layer of flavor in your roast.
- Pizza: Spread a thin layer on pizza dough and top with brie and nuts for a festive appetizer.
Creative Pairings
| Dish | Serving Suggestion |
|---|---|
| Cheese Boards | Pair with sharp cheddar and crackers. |
| Charcuterie | Combine with prosciutto and olives. |
| Desserts | Use as a filling for crepes or éclairs. |
| Beverages | Stir into mulled wine or hot cider. |
Experiment with these ideas to make the most of your homemade None Such Mincemeat. Whether you stick to tradition or try something new, this mincemeat is sure to enhance your culinary creations.
Conclusion
Making None Such Mincemeat myself has been such a fulfilling experience It’s incredible how this simple recipe can bring back so many warm memories I hope you feel the same joy when you try it out
Whether you’re crafting traditional mince pies or adding a twist to your favorite desserts this mincemeat is sure to become a staple in your kitchen Enjoy experimenting with it and sharing the festive flavors with friends and family
Happy baking!
