Green Tomato Mincemeat

Ingredients

• 7 cups very green tomatoes, finely chopped
• 7 cups green apples, finely chopped
• 1 whole lemon, finely chopped (including rind)
• 1 cup sultana
• 1 cup raisins
• 1 cup currant
• 4 cups sugar
• 12 tablespoons molasses
• 1 1/2 cups apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup brandy (to 3/4 cup)
• 1 tablespoon cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon ground cloves
• 3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
• 3/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 3/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 cup butter (can use oleo to keep vegetarian)

Directions

1. 1

   Mix together all ingredients except butter in a deep heavy bottomed pot.

2. 2

   Bring to a boil and immediately turn down heat so mixture will bubble gently.

3. 3

   Cook uncoverered over med to low heat, stirring regularly to prevent sticking, for 3 hours or until mixture is thick and liquid is absorbed.

4. 4

   Pot must be watched and heat lowered if it starts to splatter or if liquid evaporates to quickly.

5. 5

   Taste and adjust according to your own tastes -- more brandy, vinegar or sugar.

6. 6

   Simmer at least 3 hours.

7. 7

   Once mincemeat is cooked down to desired thickness, mix in butter a little bit at a time until well combined.

8. 8

   It will can, freeze or store in refrigerator (approx 30 days).

9. 9

   Makes 3 quarts!