Brandied cherries

Makes 1kg/2lb

(LISA BARBER)

1kg/2lb ripe, sweet cherries
400ml/14fl oz good-quality brandy, such as an aged apple brandy
125g/4oz caster sugar
120ml/4fl oz water

Remove the stems, wash the cherries, and lay them out to dry on a clean cloth.

Pour the brandy into a small saucepan and add the sugar and water.

Heat gently to dissolve the sugar and warm the liquor.

Pack the cherries loosely into a large, sterilised jar.

Pour the brandy over the cherries, making sure the fruit is totally submerged in the alcohol.

Seal and store in a cool dark place for a week to allow the flavours to develop, then store in the fridge.

To serve, gently warm in a pan then spoon over vanilla ice-cream.