Spiced Grapes. Mrs. Eliza Corwin, Mt. Gilead, Ohio. Recipe

Spiced Grapes Recipe

History and Fun Facts:
Spiced grapes have a long history dating back to ancient times when people used various methods to preserve fruits. This recipe was popularized in the early 19th century by Mrs. Eliza Corwin from Mt. Gilead, Ohio. Spiced grapes were a delicious treat enjoyed alongside cold meats and the leftover syrup could be used for baking purposes. It was also believed to have medicinal properties, being used as a remedy for dysentery and a refreshing drink on hot summer days. So let's carry on this tradition and learn how to make Mrs. Eliza Corwin's Spiced Grapes.

Ingredients:
- Bunches of fresh grapes
- Brown sugar
- Whole cloves
- Allspice
- Stick cinnamon

Instructions:
1. Start by washing the bunches of grapes carefully. Make sure they are clean and free from any dirt or debris.
2. Prepare two or three gallon jars for the spiced grapes. These jars will help preserve the grapes and allow them to soak in the delicious flavors.
3. Begin by layering the bottom of the jar with a thick layer of brown sugar. The sugar will add sweetness and help preserve the grapes.
4. Place a layer of bunches of grapes on top of the sugar. Make sure they fit comfortably in the jar but do not pack them too tightly.
5. Sprinkle a few whole cloves, allspice, and stick cinnamon over the layer of grapes. These spices will add a delightful aroma and flavor to the spiced grapes.
6. Repeat the alternating layers of sugar and grapes until the jar is full, ending with a layer of sugar on top.
7. Place a plate on top of the jar to keep the grapes submerged in the syrup. This will help the flavors infuse into the grapes evenly.
8. Add a weight on top of the plate to create pressure. This will aid in the preservation process and ensure the grapes remain in the syrup.
9. Tie a cloth closely over the top of the jar to seal it securely. This will prevent air and bacteria from entering the jar.
10. Store the jar in a cool place, like a cellar or refrigerator, for a few weeks to allow the grapes to absorb the spices and flavors. The longer you leave them, the more pronounced the flavor will be.
11. Once ready to serve, remove the spiced grapes from the jar and serve them alongside cold meats. Their natural sweetness combined with the spices will create a delectable accompaniment to any meat dish.
12. The syrup leftover in the jar can be used for various purposes. You can use it as a topping for cakes, puddings, or even mince pies. It adds a unique and flavorful twist to your desserts.
13. As spring approaches, strain all the remaining contents of the jar through a flannel cloth. This will remove any solids and leave you with a smooth syrup.
14. Bottle the strained syrup and store it for the summer. It can be used as a refreshing drink when mixed with ice water on hot days. Its natural sweetness and spiced undertones make for a delightful summer beverage.
15. Additionally, the syrup was believed to have medicinal properties and was used as a remedy for dysentery. So, a few spoonfuls of the syrup can help alleviate these symptoms.

Similar Recipe Dishes:
If you enjoy making and eating spiced grapes, you may also want to try some other preserved fruit recipes. Here are a few similar recipe dishes you might enjoy:
1. Spiced Plums: Follow a similar process, replacing the grapes with fresh plums. Add spices like cinnamon, cloves, and allspice for a delicious spiced plum preserve.
2. Spicy Apple Slices: Slice fresh apples and layer them with brown sugar, cinnamon, and cloves. Allow them to marinate in the syrup for a few weeks for a spiced apple treat.
3. Sweet and Spicy Pickles: For a savory twist, try making sweet and spicy pickles. Prepare the pickles as you would normally, but infuse the pickling liquid with brown sugar, allspice, and cinnamon for a unique flavor combination.

Enjoy the delightful flavors and preservation benefits of spiced grapes and explore the variations with other spiced fruit recipes. Mrs. Eliza Corwin's recipe is a true gem that offers both culinary enjoyment and traditional preservation techniques.