Vegetarian Mincemeat

I'm not usually a big fan of mince pies, as I find them too sweet and too pastry-y. Despite this, I decided to have a go at making my own vegetarian mincemeat last year as I wanted to give some away in home made hampers, and found that it tasted gorgeous (even if I say so myself!).

Makes around 3 jars

• 350 g/12oz 'normal' dried mixed fruit (currants, raisins, sultanas, peel)
• 100g/4oz chopped 'posh' dried fruits (any combination of apricots, cranberries, dates, cherries, prunes etc)
• 200g/8oz peeled, cored and grated apples (cooking or eating are fine)
• 100g/4oz vegetarian suet or chopped block butter
• 150g/6oz soft dark brown sugar
• 50g/2oz chopped nuts (not peanuts or cashews) 
• Zest of 1 orange and 1 lemon
• 1 tsp ground mixed spice
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon 
• 4 tbsp brandy or orange liqueur

Put all of the ingredients into a large pan and and stir well.
Simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Allow to cool in the pan and then stir well.
Mix in the brandy/liqueur.
Spoon into sterilised jam jars, cover with wax discs and seal the jars.
Store in a cool dark place for upto 3 months.