Quince and flowering quince are two different plants that share some similarities in flavor and texture, but they have distinct differences in terms of appearance, size, and growing habits.
1. Appearance and Size:
– Quince: True quince (Cydonia oblonga) is a small deciduous tree that can reach a height of 15 to 20 feet (4.5 to 6 meters). It has broad, ovate-shaped leaves with a fuzzy texture on the underside. The flowers are beautiful, with five petals that range in color from white to pink.
– Flowering Quince: Flowering quince (Chaenomeles speciosa) is a shrub that typically grows to a height of 6 to 10 feet (1.8 to 3 meters). Its leaves are smaller and more narrow compared to true quince, and they lack the fuzzy texture. The flowers of flowering quince are vibrant and showy, appearing in shades of red, pink, or orange.
2. Fruit:
– Quince: True quince produces large fruit, typically about the size of a large apple or pear. The fruit has a distinctive shape, similar to a squat, lumpy apple. The skin is tough and yellow when ripe, often with a fuzzy texture. The flesh is firm, white or pale yellow, and has a strong fragrance. It is very tart and astringent when raw, but it softens and sweetens when cooked.
– Flowering Quince: In contrast, flowering quince produces much smaller fruit, roughly the size of a large cherry or small plum. The fruit is often round or slightly oblong in shape, and the skin can range from yellow to orange or red, depending on the variety. The flesh is also firm and pale, similar to true quince, with a tart and tangy taste. However, the flavor and texture of flowering quince fruit are quite similar to true quince, making it a suitable substitute in many recipes.
3. Culinary Uses:
– Quince: True quince has been prized for centuries for its culinary uses. It is commonly used in jams, jellies, and preserves due to its high pectin content, which helps to naturally set these products. Quince can also be baked, poached, or stewed to soften the flesh and bring out its unique flavor. It pairs well with savory dishes, such as roasted meats, and is often used in desserts, such as pies, tarts, and crumbles.
– Flowering Quince: While not as widely used in cooking as true quince, flowering quince can be a suitable substitute in many recipes. Its smaller size makes it easier to work with, and the flavor and texture are very similar. You can use flowering quince in jams, jellies, and preserves, as well as in baked goods or as a flavoring in sauces and syrups.
While true quince and flowering quince are different plants with distinct characteristics, the smaller fruit of flowering quince is a viable alternative for culinary purposes. Both fruits have a tart and tangy flavor when raw, but they soften and develop a sweet, aromatic taste when cooked. So, if you have flowering quince in your garden, don’t hesitate to experiment with it in various quince recipes!
