Baked Quince (Ayva Tatlisi)

Quince are a relatively uncommon fruit in the U.S. Many people when coming into our store marvel at these odd green, fuzzy, and aromatic gems. There is literally nothing else quite like it - it is the sole member of it's genus, but is most closely related to apples and pears. Its extremely tart taste makes it not so great for eating raw, but baked with a little sugar, it makes an excellent dessert or side dish. Don't let the fuzz or tartness turn you off of these aromatic fruit - you can even put them in a decorative dish on your table for a kitchen that smells lemony and fresh!

Ingredients:

• 6 small or 3 large quince*
• 3 tbsp butter*
• 8 oz. sugar, or to taste
• Optional: 10 fl oz double or strained yogurt
• Cinnamon & Sugar to taste, optional

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 400* F. Wash the quince well. Cut them in half along the core and cut out the core and seeds. Put each quince half, cut side up, on a square of foil.
2. Put a sliver of butter on each and cover with about 2 tbsp of sugar to taste.
3. Wrap them in foil and place them in a baking dish, still cut side up. Bake for about an hour or until very tender. The time may vary depending on their size.
4. Serve hot or cold, topped with the cream or yogurt and cinnamon/sugar

*Ingredients available at Belltown