Seriously Simple: A condiment for summer cooking
1/4 cup peeled and coarsely chopped fresh ginger
2 limes, thinly sliced
1 pound peaches, pitted and coarsely chopped
1 pound plums, pitted and coarsely chopped
1 cup cider vinegar
1/2 cup tawny port
2 cups dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper or crushed red pepper flakes
2 teaspoons salt
1/4 cup finely chopped cilantro or fresh mint or a combination of the two
1. In a food processor, process the onion, garlic, ginger, limes, peaches and plums until pureed.
2. In a medium nonaluminum heavy pot, combine the pureed ingredients and all the remaining ingredients except the cilantro or mint, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Lower the heat, and simmer until slightly thickened, about 45 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning. Remove from the heat, and cool. Add the cilantro or mint, and taste for seasoning. Pour the sauce into canning jars and refrigerate.
Advance Preparation: This sauce may be refrigerated in airtight containers for up to two months.
(Diane Rossen Worthington is an authority on new American cooking. She is the author of 18 cookbooks, including "Seriously Simple Parties," and a James Beard Award-winning radio show host. You can contact her at www.seriouslysimple.com.)
