firm, ripe Barlett pears, peeled, cored and cut into chu

Rinse unpeeled lemon, then thinly slice; discard seeds. Place lemon slices in heavy-bottomed 8 to 10 quart stainless steel or unchipped enamel pan and mix sugar, vinegar, onion, currants, garlic, ginger, and allspice. Brin to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium low and simmer, uncovered stirring often, until a thin syrup forms (about 15 minutes). Add pears; continue to cook, uncovered, stirring occasionally, until chutney is thickened (about 1-1/4 hours).

Ladle hot chutney into prepared, hot pint jars leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Gently run a narrow nonmetallic spatula between chutney and jar sides to release air bubbles. Wipe rims and threads clean; top with hot lids, then firmly screw on bands. Process in boiling water canner for 15 minutes. Or omit processing and ladle into jars or refrigerator containers, leaving 1/2 inch headspace; apply lids. Let cool, then refrigerate. Makes about 3 pints.

Storage time. Processed: up to 1 year. Unprocessed: up to 3 weeks in refrigerator.