| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 45 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 154 | 3.9g | 2.4g | 31.7g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 30.7g | 1.8g | 0.4g | 0.04g |
“`html
When I first came across this recipe for Baked Medlars with Cinnamon and Sugar, I was immediately captivated by its simplicity and elegance. Medlars are one of those underrated fruits that often get overlooked, but they hold a special place in European culinary history. Their unique flavor — somewhere between apples and dates — makes them a delightful addition to any dessert or snack.
A Taste of Tradition
Growing up in California, my palette has always cherished the freshness of local produce. However, my heart is irrevocably tied to the rich, aromatic spices of my Gujarati heritage. This recipe perfectly bridges those two worlds. It’s straightforward enough for a weeknight treat, but its complex flavors make it special enough for a family gathering.
Medlars, once bletted, have an incredibly soft and jelly-like consistency, which pairs wonderfully with the warm spice of cinnamon and the subtle sweetness of granulated sugar. Each bite offers a comforting sense of nostalgia, reminding me of traditional Gujarati sweet dishes like Sutarfeni but with a unique Western twist.
Health Benefits
Besides their delectable taste, medlars offer several health benefits. They are rich in vitamins C and B, which are great for boosting your immune system and energy levels. Cinnamon, too, has impressive health properties; it’s loaded with antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory effects.
If you’re someone who enjoys diversifying your fruit-based desserts, this dish can be likened to baked apples or even poached pears. It offers that same satisfying warmth and sweetness but with a distinctive, exotic flare. It also pairs exceptionally well with vanilla ice cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt, making it versatile enough to complement a variety of dishes.
So, the next time you’re wondering what’s missing from your culinary repertoire, look no further than Baked Medlars with Cinnamon and Sugar. Whether connecting with the flavors of your heritage or exploring something new and exciting, this dish is sure to leave a lasting impression.
“`
What You’ll Need
- 18 medlars
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (cut into small pieces)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
“`
Method
Step One
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Wash the medlars thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris.
Step Two
In a mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well to evenly distribute the cinnamon through the sugar.
Step Three
Arrange the washed medlars in a single layer in a baking dish. Sprinkle the cinnamon-sugar mixture evenly over the medlars.
Step Four
Add the water to the baking dish, pouring it around the medlars to help them stay moist during baking.
Step Five
Dot the medlars with small pieces of unsalted butter, distributing them evenly across the top.
Step Six
Drizzle the lemon juice over the medlars for a hint of acidity that complements the sweetness of the sugar and cinnamon.
Step Seven
Bake the medlars in the preheated oven for about 30-40 minutes, or until they are tender and the sugar has caramelized. Serve warm and enjoy!
