There is a tree known as "loquat" that was widely planted in California for
decorative purposes over the past century or more. It is a kind of medlar,
and bears one of my favorite fruits. When I was growing up in southern
California it was widely used for jam and pies, although I only ate it raw.
It has a wonderful taste, sort of a cross between a peach and an orange. You
are very lucky to have a regular supply.

"David Hare-Scott" > wrote in message
...
> We made medlar* jelly today. This is only the second crop off the tree so
> there is only one jar. The flavour is great (like a spicy aromatic apple)
> and the colour is a vibrant clear orange-scarlet, the texture is however,
> er, firm to say the least. There are almost no recipes about for medlars
> so
> we adapted from some for quinces. It appears that medlars have much
> pectin
> and more experiments are required. OTOH I may slice it and eat it with
> cheese, if anybody is interested I will keep you posted.
>
> Next year we hope to have a bigger crop and will test other recipes and
> maybe mix it with quince or apple. I can see why medlars have never made
> it
> to the supermarket as fresh fruit but the jelly/jam/preserves have great
> potential.
>
> A while ago my wife went googling for "cumquat jam" (we have a cumquat
> tree
> that produces quite nicely) and ended up at some web pages featuring
> people
> who wanted to do odd things with their clothes off and be photographed
> doing
> it. We never did find out what "cumquat jam" means other than a sweet
> preserve made from cumquats. Given the generally civilised nature of this
> NG
> I don't need to be told right now.
>
> I hope I don't get black-listed by your nanny software due to some
> connotation or use of "medlar jelly" that I am unaware of.
>
> David
>
> * Medlars are a fruit related to quinces and apples, the appearance and
> texture of the fruit is odd, perhaps an acquired taste, but the flavour is
> unique. If you grow, or can grow, apples in your area try a medlar for
> something different.
>
>