Winter Spiced Fruit

A foolproof recipe, you can vary it by using other dried fruits and/or spices. You can use ruby or tawny port--no need to use a great vintage here, but do use something drinkable. I think it is worth it to seek out organic dried fruits.

• Ready In: 45 mins
• Serves: 4-6

Ingredients

• 12  prunes, pitted
• 8  dried figs
• 4  dried apricot halves (or peaches)
• 4  dried pear halves
• 3  pieces crystallized ginger
• 1  clove
• 5  allspice berries
• 5  peppercorns
• 1  star anise
• 1  cinnamon stick, about 1-inch long
• 1  cup port wine

Directions

1. Combine everything in a heavy non reactive pan and bring to a boil.
2. Lower the heat, cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. If the dried fruits are not sufficiently tender, add 1/4 cup of water and simmer and additional 15 minutes.
4. Once the fruit is sufficently tender, remove the fruit to a serving bowl and strain the liquid over the fruit.