How long can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight jar in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Can I make this a day ahead?

Yes, in fact, it tastes better the day after when flavors have melded.

How do I know when the preserve is thick enough?

Run a spoon through it; if it leaves a trail, it’s ready.

Can I substitute fennel seeds with another spice?

Anise seeds are a close alternative for a similar flavor profile.

How can I adjust the sweetness level?

Reduce sugar according to taste or add a pinch of salt to balance sweetness.

Golden Moroccan Apricot and Fennel Seed Preserve

Name: Golden Moroccan Apricot and Fennel Seed Preserve
Prep time: 1 h
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 cups
Cuisine: Side Dish
Ingredients: Fresh apricots; Granulated sugar; Lemon zest; Fennel seeds; Ground cinnamon; Ground cardamom; Orange juice; Lemon juice

A delightful blend of sweet and aromatic Moroccan flavors.

A luscious preserve combining the sweetness of apricots with the intricate notes of fennel seeds, perfect as a spread or an elegant addition to desserts.

1 h 45 min
6 cups
Intermediate

Ingredients

For the Preserve Base

Fresh apricots

2 lb, pitted and chopped

Granulated sugar

1 lb

Lemon zest

1 teaspoon

For the Aromatics

Fennel seeds

2 teaspoons

Ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon

Ground cardamom

1/2 teaspoon

Liquid Ingredients

Orange juice

1/2 cup, freshly squeezed

Lemon juice

1 tablespoon

Preparation

Preparing the Apricots

Clean and Chop Apricots

Clean and pit apricots, then chop them into small pieces.

Macerate Apricots

Mix apricots with sugar in a large bowl; let it sit for 30 minutes to macerate.

Add Lemon Zest

Add lemon zest and combine well.

Infusing the Aromatics

Toast Fennel Seeds

Toast fennel seeds in a dry pan over medium heat until fragrant, about 2 minutes.

⚠ Avoid overcooking as it may caramelize the sugar too much.

Prepare Spice Mix

Combine with cinnamon and cardamom; set aside.

💡 Use ripe apricots for the best natural sweetness.

Mix Spices with Juices

Mix toasted spices with the juice mixture in a small bowl.

Cooking Process

Simmer the Preserves

Bring the apricot-sugar mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat.

Integrate Aromatics

Add aromatic spice mixture and juices to the simmering apricots. Stir well.

Thicken the Mixture

Continue to cook until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency. Stir occasionally.

Plating & Serving