Dried Apricot Conserve

You can vary this easy yet delectable jam by using a dried fruit medley, dried peaches or dried pears. You can also replace the cloves with fresh or ground ginger. Recipe makes 1 cup.

Ingredients:

1 cup dried apricots
Juice of 1 orange
Pinch of cinnamon
Pinch ground cloves
1/2 cup warm water

Method:

1. Chop apricots roughly.
2. Combine in mixing bowl with juice, spices, and water. Cover. Allow to stand for 1 hour.
3. Spoon into saucepan and cook gently for 10 minutes over low heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and starts to combine. Alternatively, spoon into a bowl and microwave on high for 5 minutes. Stir two to three times during cooking until mixture thickens and starts to combine.
4. Spoon into container, cover and cool.
5. Stir again, adding a little more water if necessary, then refrigerate until ready to use.

To store, cover and refrigerate for up to two weeks.