Celebrate the festive season with the rich, fruity flavors of this **Meatless Mincemeat**, a plant-based twist on a traditional classic. Packed with a medley of **apples, raisins, sultanas, and dried cranberries**, this vibrant recipe is perfectly spiced with **cinnamon, nutmeg, and mixed spice**, delivering the warm, aromatic notes you crave during the holidays. Simmered gently with **fresh citrus zest and juice**, **dark brown sugar**, and a splash of **apple cider**, this mincemeat delivers all the lusciousness without the need for meat. A touch of **dark rum or brandy** adds depth (optional), while melting **vegetable suet or grated coconut oil** binds the mixture beautifully. Whether you're baking mince pies, tarts, or festive pastries, this homemade mincemeat is ready to enjoy right away or can be stored to intensify its rich flavors. Perfect for vegetarians and vegans, this recipe is a delightful way to bring the spirit of the season to your kitchen!
In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apples, raisins, sultanas, dried cranberries, and dark brown sugar.
Add the orange zest, orange juice, lemon zest, and lemon juice to the pan.
Stir in the cinnamon stick, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and mixed spice.
Pour in the apple cider and mix everything thoroughly.
Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook gently for 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Once the fruits have softened and the mixture has thickened, remove the cinnamon stick.
Stir in the vegetable suet (or grated coconut oil) and continue cooking for another 5-10 minutes, until the suet has melted and evenly coated the mixture.
If using, stir in the dark rum or brandy at this point and mix well.
Remove the pan from the heat and allow the mincemeat to cool completely.
Transfer the meatless mincemeat to sterilized jars. Seal tightly and store in a cool, dry place. The flavors will deepen as it sits and it can be used immediately or stored for up to 3 months.
Calories |
5027 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 203.7 g | 261% | |
| Saturated Fat | 174.8 g | 874% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.2 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 0 mg | 0% | |
| Sodium | 208 mg | 9% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 813.5 g | 296% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 49.0 g | 175% | |
| Total Sugars | 681.4 g | ||
| Protein | 21.2 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 670 mg | 52% | |
| Iron | 13.2 mg | 73% | |
| Potassium | 5604 mg | 119% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.