Cherry Apple Chutney and Cheddar Canapés

Makes 2 dozen canapés

Ingredients:

• I cup dried sour cherries
• Enough sherry to cover the cherries in a small bowl
• 1/2c yellow onion, diced
• 3 cups skinned and cored Pink Lady, Braeburn or other hearty tart apple, diced to ½ inch cubes
• 1 cup fresh squeezed orange juice
• ½ cup light brown sugar
• ¼ t ginger
• ¼ t nutmeg
• 2 cloves, finely ground
• 1 cup water
• 1/8 c champagne vinegar

Additional Ingredients:

• Your favorite unseasoned crackers
• 1 block extra-sharp white cheddar cheese

Instructions:

1. Combine cherries and sherry in a bowl and allow them to rehydrate for 30 minutes.
2. After the cherries have become plump, pour the mixture into a non-reactive saucepan.
3. Add all other ingredients and stir to combine
4. Bring to a boil and then turn down the heat.  Allow the chutney to simmer uncovered, stirring frequently, approximately 45 minutes or until the fruit has softened and the liquid has condensed to a jelly-like consistency
5. Transport the chutney to a clean bowl and cool to room temperature

To Assemble:

• Slice the cheddar cheese into 1/8 inch thick pieces.  Then cut the squares diagonally to create 2 triangles
• Place the cheddar triangle on top of the cracker and spoon 1 teaspoon of chutney on top