Melecotogne in Composta

• 1 kg (2¼ lb) quinces, quartered, peeled and deseeded
• 1 lemon, preferably organically

Put the quinces in a large pan and add enough water to reach a third of the way up the fruit. Add the sugar and squeeze in the juice from the lemon, then add the squeezed-out lemon halves and the cinnamon stick, if using. Bring to the boil, cover and simmer for about 15 minutes, until the quinces are soft but still hold their shape. Check by inserting a knife from time to time. Remove the lemon