fresh fruit (apples or pears)
lemon juice
sugar
water

Prepare a simple syrup by combining water and sugar in a two to one ratio (i.e. 1/2 cup sugar to 1 cup water). Bring the syrup to a light boil, then chill to room temperature. Set aside.

Core, peel and slice the slightly firm fruit in half or uniform slices. Use a melon baller to remove any remaining portions of the seed core. Place the fruit into cold water as soon as it is sliced. Add a small amount of lemon juice in the water to prevent the fruit from discoloring.

In a microwaveable steamer, place a small amount of water in the base and add the prepared fruit, and microwave for five minutes on the highest setting. Test the fruit texture to affirm that it is still somewhat firm. Adjust the cooking time if necessary. as soon as the cooking is done, submerge the steamer basket into cold water to prevent further cooking. Save a small amount of the water from the steamer and add it to the simple syrup as there will be some of the fruit juices in the water. Do not allow the fruit to be exposed to air for any length of time, again to prevent discoloration.

Place the fruit into food storage containers with lids (such as Ziploc) packing it firmly to within a quarter of an inch from the top. Add the just enough of the simple syrup to just cover the fruit. Do not overfill as the contents will expand during freezing. Be sure the box cover is firmly attached. The fruit may also be stored in the refrigerator for several weeks without freezing in the closed containers.

When thawed out, the fruit can be use for pies or served as an appetizer over cottage cheese on a lettuce leaf, or just served as a fruit dish garnished with a bit of cinnamon, fresh mint or melted caramel for that extra taste treat.

Submitted by: Dario Brisighella Sr.