How long do boil fruit for to extract the flavor?

You can't really "extract flavor" from fruit by boiling it. Boiling fruit will mostly break it down and release its juice.

Here's why:

* Boiling changes the texture and flavor: Boiling makes fruit soft and mushy, and alters its natural flavors.

* Flavor extraction is better with other methods: To extract flavor, you can use methods like:

* Infusion: Steep fruit in hot water or other liquids to release flavor without significant breakdown.

* Simmering: A gentle simmer can help extract flavor while keeping the fruit intact.

* Pureeing: Blending fruit into a puree concentrates its flavor.

Here's what boiling fruit is good for:

* Making jams and jellies: The process of boiling fruit with sugar helps create thick, concentrated preserves.

* Making sauces and syrups: Boiling fruit with water and sugar can make delicious sauces and syrups.

How long you should boil fruit depends on the desired outcome.

* For jams and jellies: You'll boil fruit until it reaches a specific setting point, usually 220°F (104°C).

* For sauces and syrups: The boiling time will vary depending on the desired thickness. You can start with a shorter boil and adjust as needed.

Tips for boiling fruit:

* Use high-quality fruit: Fresh, ripe fruit yields the best flavor.

* Add a little acid: Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar can help brighten the flavor and prevent browning.

* Adjust the sugar: You may need to adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of the fruit.

If you're looking to extract flavor without changing the texture of the fruit, you should consider other methods like steeping or simmering.