Quinces are a relative of the apple family, and look something like a large, yellow apple. They are usually coated in thin, greyish fur. They are very hard, with firm, dryish flesh. Quinces are hardly ever eaten raw, and are usually baked, stewed or poached. All these processes make the fruit soft, enhance its delicate sweet-tart flavour, and change its colour from white to rose-pink. Quinces contain a lot of pectin, so are also well suited to making preserves. They’re available between March and May.

To Buy

Look for golden yellow quinces, with no green or soft patches. They should have smooth skin, and be very firm.

To Store

Store quinces at room temperature for up to 1 month. Don’t store quinces in the fridge as their aroma will permeate other food items.

To Prepare

Wash quinces then chop or slice and use in cooking. Their flesh discolours almost instantly when cut, so you may like to brush it with lemon juice.