### How to Make Brandied Peach Butter with Spearmint
Peach butter is a versatile ingredient that can be used in various recipes such as pastries, sauces, and even desserts. Adding a twist with spearmint brings a refreshing, minty flavor that complements the sweetness of peaches perfectly. Here’s how you can create this delightful condiment at home.
#### Ingredients:
- 10 ripe peaches (peeled, pitted, and chopped)
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 3/4 cup brandy
- 8-10 fresh spearmint leaves
#### Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Blender or food processor
- Glass jars with lids for storage
### Step-by-Step Guide:
1. **Prepare the Peaches:**
- Start by peeling, pitting, and chopping 10 ripe peaches.
- Place them in a large pot on medium heat.
2. **Cook the Peaches:**
- Add about 1 cup of water to the chopped peaches to prevent sticking.
- Cook over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes until the mixture has thickened and the peaches are soft.
- Use a wooden spoon or spatula to mash the peaches slightly as they cook.
3. **Blend the Mixture:**
- Once the peaches have softened, let them cool enough to handle but still warm.
- Blend the peach mixture in a blender or food processor until smooth.
- Strain the blended mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids and achieve a smoother consistency.
4. **Combine Sugar and Brandy:**
- In another pot, combine 3/4 cup of brandy with 4 cups of granulated sugar.
- Stir until the sugar is fully dissolved.
5. **Add the Spearmint:**
- Add 8-10 fresh spearmint leaves to the sugar mixture and stir well.
- Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the mint to infuse into the sugar syrup.
6. **Combine Peaches and Sugar Syrup:**
- Pour the strained peach puree back into the pot with the sugar-syrup mixture.
- Stir over medium heat until it starts to thicken slightly but is still pourable (around 210°F or 98°C on a candy thermometer).
7. **Simmer and Reduce:**
- Continue simmering for about 30-45 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
- The brandy should also reduce slightly but not evaporate completely.
8. **Add Mint Essence (Optional):**
- If you prefer an even stronger mint flavor, add a few drops of pure mint extract at this point and stir well.
9. **Cool and Store:**
- Remove from heat and let the peach butter cool to room temperature.
- Transfer into clean glass jars with tight-fitting lids.
- Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 months or freeze for longer storage.
### Tips:
- Ensure all utensils are sterilized before use to prevent contamination.
- Adjust the sugar based on your personal taste, but remember that peaches already have natural sweetness.
- Experiment with different types of brandy; some options like apple or orange can also work well.
By following these steps, you'll be able to create a delicious and unique brandied peach butter with spearmint, perfect for enhancing various dishes!