Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 kg fresh gooseberries, washed and stems removed
- 1 kg granulated sugar
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 4 cardamom pods
- 1/2 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/2 cup water
- Juice of 1 lemon
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Jam jars with lids
- Funnel
- Ladle
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the gooseberries, sugar, cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, nutmeg, and water.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the gooseberries have softened.
3. Remove the cinnamon stick and cardamom pods.
4. Using an immersion blender or a food processor, blend the mixture until smooth.
5. Add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
6. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until the jam thickens and reaches the desired consistency (about 30-40 minutes).
7. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.
8. Using a funnel and ladle, transfer the jam into sterilized jars.
9. Seal the jars tightly and let cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
5. Temperature:
Medium heat for cooking the gooseberries and low heat for thickening the jam.
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 4-5 cups of jam.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 50 per tablespoon
Total fat: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Total carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary fiber: 1g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If you can't find fresh gooseberries, you can use frozen ones instead.
- You can substitute the cinnamon stick, cardamom pods, cloves, and nutmeg with 1-2 teaspoons of mixed spice.
- You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice.
Variations:
- You can add a splash of rum or brandy to the jam for a boozy twist.
- You can add a tablespoon of grated ginger for a spicy kick.
- You can add a few drops of vanilla extract for a sweet flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to sterilize your jars before filling them with the jam to prevent bacteria growth.
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a plate and let it cool. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed, it's ready.
- If the jam is too thick, you can add a little water to thin it out.
- If the jam is too runny, you can cook it for a few more minutes to thicken it.
Storage instructions:
Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the jam, place the jar in a pot of hot water and heat over low heat until the jam is warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon, or spread it on toast or scones.
Garnishes:
You can garnish the jam with a few fresh gooseberries or a sprinkle of cinnamon.
Pairings:
This jam pairs well with toast, scones, biscuits, or crackers.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the jam with a cup of tea or coffee.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam doesn't set, you can add a little pectin or cook it for a few more minutes.
- If the jam is too sweet, you can add a little more lemon juice to balance the flavors.
Food safety advice:
Make sure to sterilize your jars before filling them with the jam to prevent bacteria growth.
Food history:
Gooseberry jam is a traditional recipe in Sri Lanka, where it is known as "Nelli Jam." It is often served with rice and curry or as a condiment for bread.
Flavor profiles:
This jam has a sweet and tangy flavor with warm spices.
Serving suggestions:
Serve the jam as a condiment for bread or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
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Region: Sri Lankan