GOODNESS
Cinnamon: Cinnamon comes from the bark of a tropical evergreen, just like its cousin cassia. It has an ancient pedigree, even being used to embalm a few pharaohs. That may not sound appetizing, but it has been found to be good for the heart, the stomach and the joints. Not impressed yet? Well consider that it also seems to mimic insulin and therefore helps diabetics moderate their sugar levels. So don't be shy with this tasty and healthy spice.
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Recipe

Dried Fruit Stewed with Brown Sugar and Vanilla

serves
prep time: 10
cook time: 30

ingredients

  • 1 quart water
  • 1/2 cup firmly packed brown sugar
  • 1 8 ounce package mixed dried fruit
  • 4 orange slices
  • 1 cinnamon stick
  • 1 1.5 inch piece vanilla bean, split lengthwise
  • Plain yogurt or sour cream
  • Ground cinnamon

directions

Combine all ingredients except yogurt and ground cinnamon in heavy medium saucepan. Bring to boil, stirring until sugar dissolves. Reduce heat and simmer until fruit softens, stirring occasionally, about 20 minutes. Transfer fruit only to glass bowl, using slotted spoon. Boil liquid until reduced to 1 cup, returning liquid exuded from fruit to saucepan, about 10 minutes. Pour liquid over fruit, discarding orange slices. Serve warm, room temperature or chilled, topping with dollop of yogurt and dusting of cinnamon.