Forktionary

Mincemeat

Traditionally Bos taurus or Sus scrofa domesticus (minced meat, mixed with fruit). Modern: fruit, suet, spices, brandy. Preserve, Pie Filling, Confectionery Ingredient, Fruit Product

Mincemeat Preserve, Pie Filling, Confectionery Ingredient, Fruit Product

At a Glance

  • Category Preserve, Pie Filling, Confectionery Ingredient, Fruit Product

The Forktionary Angle

"From savory past to sweet present: tracing the evolution of this historic preserve and its modern culinary applications."

Definition

A traditional British preserve of dried fruits, spices, suet, and spirits, originally containing minced meat, primarily used in festive pies.

Preservation Method Sugar, alcohol, and dried fruits contribute to long shelf life.
Primary Use Mince pies, especially during Christmas season.
Traditional Origin Medieval, contained real minced meat (beef/mutton).

Flavor Profile

The primary flavor notes for Mincemeat are:

Sweet spiced fruity rich boozy complex

Chef’s Secret

Stir a tablespoon of fresh grated apple or orange zest into jarred mincemeat before using to brighten its flavors and add extra moisture.

Best Substitutes

Mixed fruit preserve

less spice/alcohol
Ratio 1:1

Fruitcake mix

similar ingredients, different texture
Ratio 1:1

Apple pie filling + spices/dried fruit

Ratio 1:1

Buying Guide

Available in jars, especially around holidays. Look for brands with real suet for authentic texture and flavor, or vegetarian versions.

Culinary Pairings

Shortcrust pastry brandy butter whipped cream vanilla ice cream sharp cheddar cheese

Recipes Using Mincemeat

1930 Recipe For Mincemeat Cake image 110
Preparation 4 Hours Or Less 3 Steps Or Less Preparation

1930 Recipe For Mincemeat Cake

Transport yourself back to the 1930s with this delightful mincemeat bundt cake recipe, sourced from a cherished church group cookbook! This rich and spiced cake combines the classic flavors of mincemeat with a tender, moist crumb. Perfect for holiday gatherings or a cozy afternoon treat, this recipe is a true taste of tradition. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this nostalgic dessert.

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A To Z Bread image 108
Course Preparation Low In Something Low Sodium

A To Z Bread

This incredibly versatile and moist bread is a delicious way to use up leftover frozen berries! Packed with flavor and easy to customize, A to Z Berry Bread is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a delightful afternoon treat. Make it your own by adding your favorite mix of frozen fruits, nuts, and spices.

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Apple Streusel Mince Pie image
Low Sodium Healthy Occasion Fruit

Apple Streusel Mince Pie

This Apple Streusel Mincemeat Pie is a delightful twist on a classic! Layers of sweet apples and rich mincemeat are topped with a buttery, crunchy streusel, creating a flavor explosion in every bite. Perfect for holiday gatherings or any special occasion, this recipe is sure to impress even the pickiest eaters. The beautiful golden-brown streusel topping makes it as visually appealing as it is delicious. A guaranteed family favorite!

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Aloo Keema image
Main Dish Course Preparation Meat

Aloo Keema

Experience Aloo Keema like never before! This unique Pakistani recipe flips the traditional method, building a rich masala base *first* before adding the flavorful keema (minced meat). Inspired by a Pakistani cooking show, this aromatic curry boasts a depth of flavor that's simply unforgettable. Serve it hot with fluffy parathas or chapati and a refreshing mint raita for a truly authentic experience. Get ready for a flavor explosion!

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Add Ins Bread image 120
Time To Make Easy Preparation 4 Hours Or Less

Add Ins Bread

This versatile banana bread recipe, sourced from a cherished Firebaugh, California church cookbook, is a family favorite! It's incredibly adaptable—use your favorite mix-ins to create a unique loaf every time. Our go-to version features perfectly moist banana bread with irresistible flavor. Get ready to bake up a batch of deliciousness!

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Beef And Eggplant Bake With Polenta Crust image
4 Hours Or Less Cuisine Ground Beef Low Protein

Beef And Eggplant Bake With Polenta Crust

This hearty Beef and Eggplant Bake, topped with a creamy polenta crust and baked to golden perfection, is the ultimate comfort food for chilly evenings. The rich beef ragu, layered with tender eggplant and fragrant herbs, is perfectly complemented by the cheesy polenta topping. Serve with a simple green salad for a complete and satisfying meal. #beefrecipe #eggplantrecipe #polenta #comfortfood #winterrecipe #bakedrecipe #easyrecipe

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Can T Fail Holiday Fruitcake image
For Large Groups Low In Something 4 Hours Or Less For Large Groups

Can T Fail Holiday Fruitcake

This decadent holiday fruitcake recipe is surprisingly easy to make, despite the cost of high-quality mincemeat! Experience the best fruitcake you'll ever taste – rich, moist, and bursting with festive flavors. Perfect for holiday gatherings or gifting!

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Autumn Pumpkin Spice 4 Layer Bars image
Number Of Servings Equipment Oven 4 Hours Or Less

Autumn Pumpkin Spice 4 Layer Bars

Indulge in the magic of autumn with these delicious 4-layer pumpkin spice bars! Warm spices, creamy pumpkin, and a buttery crumble topping make this the perfect fall treat. Easy to make and even easier to devour, these bars are ideal for autumn gatherings or a cozy night in. Get ready to be amazed by the irresistible flavors and textures!

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