Old-Time Mincemeat Pie

Step 1
Combine steak and cider in a Dutch oven. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook until steak is tender, about 20 minutes. Remove steak to a cutting board; coarsely chop, then return to the pot.

Step 2
Stir in apples, currants, raisins, cherry preserves, 1 1/3 cups sugar, mixed fruit peel, and butter. Add ginger, cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and salt. Simmer, uncovered, over low heat until mixture is very thick, about 1 hour 30 minutes. Stir in cherries and remove from heat.

Step 3
Transfer filling to a container and allow to cool at room temperature. Cover tightly and refrigerate for at least 1 week before using.

Step 4
Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C).

Step 5
Line a 9-inch pie dish with 1 pastry crust. Spoon filling into crust and cover with second pastry crust. Crimp edges and cut several slits into top pastry. Brush with cream and sprinkle with 1 teaspoon sugar.

Step 6
Bake in the preheated oven until golden brown, about 45 minutes.