1900 Grandma'S Mincemeat
A traditional mincemeat blend featuring roasted beef and spiced fruit, perfect for pies and cookies, offering rich flavors suitable for holiday baking or festive treats.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Grind together the roasted beef, apples, raisins, currants, and suet.
- Add salt to taste.
- Then add ground cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, fruit juice, and citrin.
- Simmer until the apples and raisins are tender.
- Use for making pies or cookies.
- May be canned or frozen for later use.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider substituting half the suet with butter. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use plant-based substitutes for beef, such as lentils or mushrooms, though the texture will differ. Ensure the apples are tart, as they balance the sweetness of the raisins and currants. Experimenting with spices can enhance this classic dish; try adding ginger for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
This mincemeat is perfect for filling pies or cookies, making it an excellent choice for holiday desserts. Serve it alongside whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence. Pair it with a warm cup of spiced cider or coffee for a delightful treat. For a savory twist, consider using it in savory pastries inspired by classic beef recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover mincemeat in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. It can also be canned in sterilized jars for long-term storage or frozen for up to six months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through, or microwave in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 1900 Grandma'S Mincemeat contains roughly 5090 calories, with 47g protein, 152g carbohydrates, and 498g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (246% of the Daily Value), iron (121% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (121% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. It also contributes 69g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of fruit in this mincemeat?
Absolutely! While traditional recipes often use apples, feel free to incorporate pears or dried fruits like apricots and figs. Just keep in mind that the sweetness and texture may change, so adjust the sugar and spices accordingly to maintain balance.
How long does homemade mincemeat last?
Homemade mincemeat can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. If canned properly, it can last up to a year on the shelf. If frozen, it retains its quality for about six months, allowing you to enjoy this flavorful treat well beyond the holiday season.
Is it necessary to simmer the mincemeat?
Yes, simmering helps meld the flavors and tenderizes the apples and raisins, creating a deliciously cohesive filling. It also ensures that the spices fully infuse the mixture, enhancing the overall taste. Skipping this step may result in a less flavorful outcome.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).