Food consultant and Queensland Food Fellow Alison Alexander OAM will share expert tips on crafting award-winning preserves at local library events this month.
A former chief judge at the Ekka, Alison will appear at the Chermside and Nundah libraries, offering practical advice to help preserve-makers refine their skills.
“As a competitor, try to go to many shows to see what the preserves competition is like and which preserves are being awarded first prize,” she said. “Look at the size of the cucumber slices in a bread and butter pickle, the pieces of vegetables used in mustard pickles or the cut rind in a marmalade.
“Each competitor has their own way of making preserves, but there are some things that are simple to do and will achieve a good result. For example, when making lemon curd (lemon butter), as it is being poured into the jars, pour through a sieve to ensure there are no coagulated spots. This is the first thing a judge looks for.”
The Art and Joy of Preserve-Making
Alison has been a guest presenter on ABC Radio for 27 years, has written for numerous publications, and led food tours for 30 years. She also champions the use of seasonal produce.
“Generally, produce in season is at its greatest availability and most economical, so buying a large quantity to make into preserves will give you a good supply of jars to use at home and give as gifts,” she said.
She said preserve-making has seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly during the pandemic.
“Making a batch of jam or pickles is very satisfying,” she said.
“Buying inexpensive fruit and vegetables can be made into a wide range of preserves, including sauces, vinegars, jams and marmalades and pickles, relish and chutneys and many more.”
Attendees can enjoy tastings and take home a selection of recipes.
Bookings required. Phone Chermside Library on 3403 7200 or Nundah Library on 3407 8701 to reserve your place.
Ekka preserves with Alison Alexander
- Saturday, 24 May, 11am
- Nundah Library
- 1 Bage Street, Nundah.
- Wednesday, 28 May, 1pm
- Chermside Library
- 375 Hamilton Road, Chermside
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