Other names: Pineapple Quince

Availability: October through March.

Source: United States.

Handling Tips: 34-36° F.

General Information: Cultivation of quince may have preceded apple culture, and many references translated to "apple", such as the fruit in Song of Solomon of Adam and Eve in the Garden of Eden, may actually have been to a quince. Among the ancient Greeks, the quince was a ritual offering at weddings, for it had come from the Levant with Aphrodite and remained sacred to her. Plutarch reports that a Greek bride would nibble a quince to perfume her kiss before entering the bridal chamber, "in order that the first greeting may not be disagreeable nor unpleasant" (Roman Questions 3.65). It was a quince that Paris awarded Aphrodite. It was for a golden quince that Atalanta paused in her race. Quinces are too hard, astringent and sour to eat raw unless 'bletted' (softened by frost). It must be cooked to enjoy the apple, pear and pineapple flavors. Widely used in confections, conserves, marmalades, etc. Can be baked with apples in a pie for added color and a distinct flavor.

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