CHOPPED FRUIT FILLING
I. About 1 ¾ cups
Combine in a double boiler, or a heatproof bowl set over a pan of simmering water, and stir until the sugar dissolves:
- ¾ cup evaporated milk
- ¾ cup sugar
- ¼ cup water
- ⅛ teaspoon salt
Add and cook, stirring occasionally, until thick:
- ¼ cup finely chopped dates
- ¼ cup finely chopped dried figs
Let cool, then add:
- ½ cup chopped toasted nuts, such as walnuts or pecans
- 1 teaspoon vanilla
II. About 2 cups
Combine in a small saucepan and simmer gently for 25 minutes:
- ½ cup loosely packed dried apricots
- 1 cup water
Increase the heat to high and boil until nearly all the liquid has evaporated. Puree in a food processor. Return the mixture to the saucepan. Stir in:
- ⅔ cup sugar
Cook over low heat until it thickens, about 3 minutes. Remove from the heat and stir in:
- Finely grated zest of 1 orange
- 2 tablespoons orange juice
- ¾ cup chopped golden raisins
- ¼ cup finely chopped candied ginger