Quince has been around for thousands of years, with roots in ancient Persia and Greece. It was considered a symbol of love and fertility, and was often given as a gift to newlyweds (who knew fruit could be so romantic?). The ancient Greeks even used it to make a sweet, quince-based jam called "marmalade", which was a staple in every household.
Fast forward to today, and you'll find that quince is still a beloved ingredient in many Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. It's often used in jams, preserves, and even savory dishes, like stews and braises. And the best part? It's incredibly versatile, so you can experiment with it in all sorts of recipes and cooking methods.