Peaches in Rum or Brandy Syrup

Yield: 6 servings

1 1/2 pounds firm, ripe, very small peaches
3/4 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup water
1/2 cup dark rum or brandy

Scald peaches and remove skins.

In skillet large enough to hold peaches in one layer bring to a boil the sugars and water stirring. Add peaches cover and simmer gently for about 4 minutes. Turn fruit over re-cover the skillet and poach peaches for about 4 minutes longer or until they are barely tender.

Pour rum or brandy into clean 1-quart canning jar with a 2-piece screw-on lid. Spoon in the peaches, gently packing very tightly without squashing them.

Boil remaining syrup to thicken it slightly, but don't let it caramelize. Pour the syrup slowly over the fruit leaving 1/2-inch headroom. Slip thin knife carefully around the inside walls of jar to release any air bubbles. Cover and seal jar and place in boiling water bath to cover by 2 inches and process for 10 minutes.

Remove from boiling water and set on rack or towel to cool. Store in dark place for at least 1 month - preferably longer - before serving.

Yield: 1 quart - about 6 servings