Sweet Pickled Plums and Cherries

I saw a recipe for this in a Food and Drink magazine and I just had to try it!! I have made this a few times now with a few tweaks to suit our taste buds.  This is great with yogurt or with ice cream but it also makes a great side to any main meat. These keep for a couple of months in the refrigerator.

INGREDIENTS

6 red or black plums

2 cups sweet cherries, halved and pits removed

2 cloves garlic, crushed

4 bay leaves

1 cup red wine vinegar

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar

1 1/2 cups granulated sugar

1 tablespoon pickling salt

1 teaspoon mustard seeds

1/2 teaspoon fennel seeds

1/2 teaspoon cinnamon

1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

DIRECTIONS

Remove the pits from the plums and cut them into wedges, toss them together with the cherries and garlic in a large bowl; set aside.

Place the remaining ingredients in a large pot and bring to a boil while stirring; reduce heat and simmer while stirring until sugar and salt are completely dissolved.

Pour the syrup over the fruit mixture, cover and keep refrigerated for a couple of days before serving.

*Please keep in mind that not all dried herbs and spices are gluten free so check the labels to make sure the brand you are using is gluten free. The same applies for prepackaged store-bought items, check the labels to be sure. If in doubt, call the toll free number on packaging to be safe and to make your cooking/eating experience is truly gluten free.