Lemon Thyme and Cointreau Honeyed Peaches

Wash and rinse jars; bring to a boil in a large pot, turn down heat and let stand in hot water until ready to use. In a smaller pot, bring lids and rings to a boil; turn down heat; let stand in hot water until ready to use.

To peel the peaches, fill a pot with water and bring it to a boil. Prepare a large bowl with ice water.

Cut a small x in the bottom of each peach and dunk it in the boiling water for 30 to 45 seconds or until you see the peach skin at the x begin to release. Transfer the peaches to the ice water. Peel them with your fingers or with a small paring knife (the skins should slip right off if the peaches were ripe). Cut the peaches in half and remove the stems and the pits. Squeeze the lemon juice over them to prevent browning.

Combine the Cointreau, water and honey in a pot and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Immerse the peaches in a single layer and cook them for 2 to 4 minutes (depending on ripeness) or until the peaches are hot through. You may need to do this in batches. Reserve the syrup.

Divide the peaches between the jars, packing them tightly, and add 2 clove buds to each jar. Tuck 2 lemon slices and 2 lemon thyme sprigs into each as well.

Carefully fill the jars with the hot syrup to within 1/2-inch of top. (Be sure the peaches, lemon slices and thyme are immersed.) Wipe rims clean. Screw on 2-piece lids. Put the filled jars in boiling water to cover. Boil for 20 minutes (add 1 minute more for every 1,000 feet above sea level). Remove jars from the water. Let cool. Check the seals - lids should be sucked down. These will last about 1 month in the refrigerator once opened.