📖 Instructions

1. Gather Your Safari Crew: Before you begin, collect all your ingredients and equipment. This will make the whole process smoother and more enjoyable. Like assembling your team before a long hike in the mountains.
2. Prep the Fruits: Wash all your fruits thoroughly. Peel and dice the mango, pineapple, papaya, and kiwi into small, uniform pieces. The smaller the pieces, the easier they will be to cook down into a spread. Think of it like creating small pieces of a puzzle; it'll be easier to solve.
3. Combine in a Pot: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the diced mango, pineapple, papaya, and kiwi. Add the sugar, lemon juice, and ginger (if using). Stir everything together until well combined. One of my friends once told me about their fun hiking experience in the mountains. But they also mentioned how much they regretted not preparing well beforehand.
4. Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The fruit will soften and release its juices, creating a luscious sauce. You know, the fruit should look all mushy. And I love mushy fruit.
5. Check for Consistency: As the fruit simmers, it will begin to break down and thicken. To check the consistency, place a small spoonful of the mixture on a chilled plate. If it sets up nicely and doesn't run, it’s ready. Otherwise, continue to simmer for a few more minutes. This is really important. Don't skip it.
6. Blend for Smoothness (Optional): If you prefer a smoother spread, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture directly in the saucepan. Alternatively, you can transfer the mixture to a regular blender and blend until smooth. Be cautious when blending hot liquids. Do it in batches if necessary. I was once using my new blender to make a smoothie. Everything was going fine until I realized that I didn't close the lid properly. I made a mess.
7. Add Final Touches: Stir in the vanilla extract (if using) and any additional spices, such as a pinch of nutmeg or cinnamon, for added depth of flavor. Taste and adjust the sweetness or tanginess as needed. Adding a splash of rum extract can also impart a delightful tropical note.
8. Cool and Store: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the fruit spread cool completely. Once cooled, transfer it to a clean, airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. The flavor will deepen as it sits. Make sure to label the jar with the date so you know when you made it.
9. Serve and Enjoy: Spread it on toast, crackers, or scones. Use it as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. Incorporate it into your baking recipes or use it as a glaze for meats. The possibilities are as endless as your imagination. What will you discover? So now that we know how to make it, you should definitely try it! I bet you're going to like it.