Mincemeat

Mincemeat is a much-loved festive filling that often poses questions due to its unique nature. One common mistake people often make when dealing with mincemeat is by consuming it raw; it should always be baked into pies or tarts. It's also a misconception that mincemeat contains minced meat - it's actually a sweet treat packed with fruits and spices, not a savoury dish. To get the most out of mincemeat, consider making your own. Homemade versions give you the flexibility to adjust the precise mix of ingredients to your liking and are usually much more flavorful than store-bought. A little known fact about mincemeat is that despite its name, it is often vegetarian or even vegan. The ‘mince’ refers to the fine chopping of the fruit, not to meat. Moreover, if you have leftover mincemeat, think about using it in other unconventional ways such as in muffins, cookies, or as a topping for your morning porridge. Another tip is that you can add a little brandy or other spirit - this will enhance the flavor and help preserve the mincemeat too.