In this recipe we slowly "double-cook" the quince, which prevents the fruit from crystallizing and heightens the pinkish- orange color it turns when cooked.

　　

Ingredients

Makes about 2 cups

　　1/2 cup pecans

　　3 medium quinces (about 1 1/2 pounds total)

　　a 1-inch piece fresh gingerroot

　　1 3/4 cups sugar

　　3 cups water

　　1 teaspoon mustard seeds

　　1/4 teaspoon dried hot red pepper flakes

　　1 teaspoon white-wine vinegar

　　1/2 teaspoon salt

　　Accompaniments: meats, cheeses, and crackers

　　

Step 1

Preheat oven to 350°F.

　　

Step 2

On a baking sheet in middle of oven toast pecans in one layer until golden, about 10 minutes, and when cool coarsely chop. Peel, quarter, and core quinces. Cut quarters lengthwise into 1/8-inch-thick slices and cut each slice crosswise into 6 pieces. Peel gingerroot and cut into fine julienne strips.

　　

Step 3

In a 3-quart heavy saucepan bring quince, gingerroot, and all remaining ingredients except pecans to a boil. Simmer mixture, covered, stirring occasionally, 2 1/2 hours (quince will be deep pinkish orange). Cool mixture in pan, covered, at room temperature at least 8 hours and up to 1 day.

　　

Step 4

Return pan to heat and simmer mixture, stirring occasionally, 15 minutes. Stir in pecans and transfer conserve to a bowl to cool completely. (Conserve keeps, covered and chilled, 1 month.)

　　

Step 5

Serve conserve with meats, cheeses, and crackers.