Quince

A quince is a hard, round or pear-shaped fruit that looks and tastes like a cross between an apple and pear. But, unlike the apples and pears they resemble, quinces are inedible raw. With cooking, quinces develop a slightly grainy texture similar to a firm pear and a lovely rosy amber color.

Because their season is fleeting—from October to December—you should get quinces while you can. Look for them in large supermarkets, farmers' markets, and specialty or ethnic stores. They'll fill an entire room with their enticing scent.

Recipes:
• Quince Tart with Pine Nut Caramel Glaze
• Caramelized Quinces
• Quince-Lemon Marmalade
• Polenta with Port-Poached Quince and Blue Cheese
• Five-Spice Duck Breasts with Caramelized Quince

See More: In Season: Quince