National Mincemeat Day Date in the current year: October 26, 2024

The word “mincemeat” is derived from the term “minced meat”, which means finely chopped meat. Originally, mincemeat was a mixture of fruit and meat, hence the name. Early mincemeat recipes included wine or vinegar, which had been replaced by distilled spirits by the 18th century. Spices such as cinnamon, mace, nutmeg, and cloves were also added.

Modern mincemeat does not necessarily contain meat, although some recipes call for beef or venison. It is a mixture of chopped dried fruit, spices, and distilled spirits such as rum or brandy. Beef tallow is sometimes added, but it can be replaced with vegetable shortening. Some mincemeat recipes include citrus peel, chopped apples, candied fruit, and nuts.

Mincemeat is most often used to make mince pies or tarts. Mince pies are usually served during the Christmas holiday season. They are also a traditional Thanksgiving dish in some parts of the United States. To celebrate National Mincemeat Day, you can make a delicious mince pie. Think of it as a preview of your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner.