Pineapple Mint Conserve
A vibrant pineapple mint conserve with sweet, tangy flavors and a hint of mint, perfect for spreading on toast or serving alongside roast lamb for a tropical twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix crushed canned pineapple and sugar, stir well and bring to boiling point. Cook hard for 1 minute.
- Add green food coloring to achieve the desired tint.
- Remove from heat and add pectin, stirring well.
- Skim the mixture and allow it to cool, stirring often.
- Add mint flavoring and transfer into jars.
Tips & Substitutions
For a thicker conserve, you can increase the pectin slightly; just be cautious not to overdo it. If you don't have mint flavoring, fresh mint can be steeped in hot water to extract flavor before adding it to the mix. Adjust the sugar to your taste, especially if using fresh pineapple. If desired, a splash of rum can add a tropical twist.
Serving Suggestions
This Pineapple Mint Conserve pairs beautifully with toasted bread or scones for breakfast. It can also be drizzled over pancakes or ice cream for a refreshing dessert. Consider using it as a unique topping for grilled meats, especially with dishes like Hawaiian Chicken Kabobs, for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Store the conserve in airtight jars in the refrigerator, where it can last for up to three weeks. For longer storage, consider canning the conserve properly to keep it shelf-stable. When ready to use, simply scoop out the desired amount and enjoy it cold or at room temperature.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pineapple Mint Conserve contains roughly 205 calories, with 4g protein, 51g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (85% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (33% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. It also contributes 9g 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 fresh pineapple instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pineapple, but you'll need to crush it and ensure it's ripe for the best flavor. You may also need to adjust the sugar content, as fresh pineapple can vary in sweetness compared to canned options.
How do I know when the conserve is set?
To test if your conserve is set, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape and doesn't run back together, it's ready. If not, continue to cook for a bit longer before testing again.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Reducing sugar can impact the setting of the conserve, as sugar helps with preservation and texture. If you wish to cut down, try using a sugar substitute that is suitable for canning or reduce the amount slightly while monitoring the consistency as it cooks.
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).