Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 kg custard apples, peeled and seeded
- 500 g sugar
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup water
Special equipment needed:
- Blender or food processor
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized jars with lids
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Cut the custard apples into small pieces and blend them in a blender or food processor until smooth.
2. In a large saucepan, combine the custard apple puree, sugar, lemon juice, vanilla extract, and water.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar dissolves.
4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the jam simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
6. To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate and let it cool. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it's done.
7. Remove the jam from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
8. Pour the jam into sterilized jars and seal tightly with lids.
9. Store the jars in a cool, dry place.
- Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for dissolving sugar
- High heat for boiling
- Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
- Makes about 2-3 cups of jam
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 60 per tablespoon
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use other sweeteners instead of sugar, such as honey or maple syrup.
- You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice.
- You can use other fruit extracts instead of vanilla extract.
Variations:
- You can add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for extra flavor.
- You can add chopped nuts or dried fruits for texture.
- You can mix custard apple with other fruits such as mango, pineapple, or strawberry.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to remove all the seeds and skin from the custard apples before blending.
- Stir the jam frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Use a wide-mouthed funnel to pour the jam into jars to avoid spills.
- To sterilize jars, wash them in hot soapy water, rinse well, and place them in a preheated oven at 160°C for 10 minutes.
Storage instructions:
- Store the jam in a cool, dry place for up to 6 months.
- Once opened, store the jam in the refrigerator and consume within 2 weeks.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the jam, place the jar in a bowl of hot water until it reaches room temperature.
- Do not microwave the jam as it can cause the jar to explode.
Presentation ideas:
- Label the jars with the name and date of the jam.
- Tie a ribbon or twine around the jar lid for decoration.
- Serve the jam with toast, scones, or crackers.
Garnishes:
- Sprinkle chopped nuts or dried fruits on top of the jam.
- Add a dollop of whipped cream or yogurt on top of the jam.
Pairings:
- Serve the jam with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate.
- Pair the jam with cheese, such as brie or camembert.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the jam with toast, croissants, or bagels.
- Pair the jam with a fruit salad or yogurt parfait.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too runny, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the jam is too thick, add a little water or lemon juice to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to sterilize the jars and lids before filling them with jam.
- Do not use jars with cracks or chips.
- Do not consume the jam if it smells or tastes off.
Food history:
- Custard apples are native to South America and were introduced to Asia and Africa by the Spanish and Portuguese.
- Custard apple jam is a popular sweet spread in India, where custard apples are abundant.
Flavor profiles:
- Custard apple jam has a sweet, creamy, and slightly tangy flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the jam at breakfast, brunch, or afternoon tea.
- Use the jam as a filling for cakes, pastries, or tarts.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A