This has to be the easiest preserve, and yet the minimal effort involved is rewarded with a truly luxurious result. Serve simply with whipped cream and enjoy.
MAKES: About 1 quart
INGREDIENTS:
- 3 cups ripe cherries
- ⅜ cup sugar
- 2⅜ cups eau de vie
INSTRUCTIONS:
- Prepare the cherries by using a cherry stoner to pit them and remove any stalks. Once the cherries are prepared, pack them into sterilized wide-necked jars. Alternate layers of cherries with sugar, sprinkling sugar in between the layers. Continue layering until the jars are filled with cherries. If there is any remaining sugar, spoon it on top of the cherries.
- Pour the eau de vie (a type of fruit brandy) over the cherries, filling the jars all the way to the top. Ensure that the cherries are completely covered by the eau de vie. Seal the jars tightly.
- Store the jars in a cool, dark place for at least 6 weeks. During this time, shake the jars occasionally to help dissolve the sugar and create a syrup. This will enhance the flavor of the cherries and allow them to develop their full taste.
