Vegetarian Mincemeat

Ingredients (use vegan versions):

• 3 large Red Delicious apples, peeled, cored and diced
• 1/2 cup chopped figs
• 1/2 cup chopped dates
• 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds
• 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
• 1/4 cup vegan maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger

Directions:

In a heavy saucepan, simmer all ingredients over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mincemeat will keep, covered and refrigerated, for approximately 1 week. Put this vegetarian mincemeat in a pretty jar or crock and give it to friends and family with a sweet tooth. It can be heated and served plain or can be used as an ice cream topping, as a pie filling (this recipe will fill 1 pie), or as an unusual stuffing for acorn squash.

Serves: 4