Cranberry, Dried Cherry, and Almond Conserve

Ingredients

• 3 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups water
• 3/4 cup honey
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 star anise pods (or 1 tsp. seeds in a tea infuser)
• 2 inches piece gingerroot, peeled & minced (or 1 tsp ground ginger)
• 1/2 cup dried cherries
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 2/3 cup chopped almonds

Directions

1. 1

   In saucepan, combine cranberries, water, honey, lemon, anise, and ginger; bring to a boil (med-hi heat); reduce to low & simmer uncovered for five minutes.

2. 2

   Add dried fruits and simmer five more minutes (stirring occasionally).

3. 3

   Remove anise pods or tea infuser (discard).

4. 4

   Remove from heat and stir in the almonds.

5. 5

   Ladle into HOT jars, leaving 1/2-inch headspace; seal with lids & rings, process in a hot-water bath for 10 minutes.