Canned Old Fashioned Mincemeat

Prep: 45 min Cuisine: American

Old Fashioned Mincemeat combines savory pork with sweet fruits and warming spices, creating a rich, flavorful filling perfect for pies and desserts. Its deep, spiced profile appeals to traditional tastes and holiday celebrations, making it an ideal choice for festive baking or homemade preserves.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 5 lb. pork
  • 1/2 gallon peaches, pears, etc.
  • 1 gallon ground or chopped apples
  • 1 pint jelly
  • 2 Tbsp. cinnamon
  • 2 Tbsp. allspice
  • 2 Tbsp. cloves
  • 1 pint vinegar
  • salt and sugar to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the pork meat and grind it finely.
  2. Cook the fruit; canned or fresh fruit may be used, according to preference.
  3. Mix all ingredients thoroughly.
  4. Put the mixture into sterilized jars.
  5. Cold pack for 30 minutes or process under pressure at 10 pounds of pressure, then turn off and cool.

Tips & Substitutions

When preparing this mincemeat, consider using a mix of dried fruits like raisins or cranberries for added sweetness and texture. If you prefer a leaner option, substitute turkey or chicken for the pork. Adjust the spices to your taste, perhaps adding nutmeg for an extra layer of flavor. For ease, use a food processor to grind the ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the mincemeat as a filling for pies or pastries, or spread it on toast for a delightful breakfast treat. It pairs beautifully with Sourdough Bread Mix for a unique flavor combination. Consider adding a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side for a delicious dessert experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store the canned mincemeat in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated in an airtight container for up to two weeks. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also enjoy it cold as a topping.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Canned Old Fashioned Mincemeat contains roughly 4984 calories, with 248g protein, 628g carbohydrates, and 186g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (495% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (487% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

4984 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 247.7g 100% DV
Total Fat 186g 100% DV
Carbs 628.1g 100% DV
Fiber 136.4g 100% DV
Sugar 227g 100% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 5000mg 100% DV
Cholesterol 55.8mg 19% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 42.1mcg 5% DV
Vitamin C 4.8mg 5% DV
Calcium 2000mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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 meat in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute other meats like beef or even a plant-based option for a vegetarian version. Just ensure that the meat is cooked thoroughly and finely ground for the best texture in your mincemeat.

How long can I store the canned mincemeat?

Properly canned mincemeat can be stored for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Once opened, consume it within two weeks when kept refrigerated. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.

Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?

Absolutely! You can use frozen fruit as a convenient alternative. Just thaw it before cooking and drain any excess liquid to avoid a watery mixture. This works well for apples and berries, ensuring a delicious flavor.

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).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →