Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 cups of peeled and diced peaches
- 3 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Canning funnel
- Jar lifter
- Magnetic lid lifter
- Bubble remover tool
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the diced peaches, sugar, vanilla bean and its seeds, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
3. Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 45-50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and the peaches break down.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and discard the vanilla bean.
5. Using an immersion blender or a food processor, puree the mixture until it is smooth.
6. Return the pot to the heat and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
7. While the conserve is cooking, prepare the canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer's instructions.
8. Once the conserve has thickened, remove the pot from the heat and ladle the hot mixture into the prepared canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
9. Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
10. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids and bands on the jars, tightening the bands until they are just snug.
11. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
12. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a wire rack for 24 hours.
13. Check the seals on the jars and store in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat, medium-low heat, boiling water bath
Serving size:
This recipe makes approximately 6-8 half-pint jars.
Nutritional information:
Calories: 120
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 30g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Peaches can be substituted with nectarines or apricots.
- Vanilla bean can be substituted with 1 tablespoon of vanilla extract.
Variations:
- Add 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon for a spiced peach and vanilla conserve.
- Add 1/4 cup of bourbon for a boozy peach and vanilla conserve.
Tips and tricks:
- Use ripe, but not overripe, peaches for the best flavor.
- Stir the mixture frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
- Use a canning funnel to make filling the jars easier and less messy.
- Make sure to remove any air bubbles from the jars to prevent spoilage.
- Label the jars with the date and contents for easy identification.
Storage instructions:
Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Reheating instructions:
To serve, simply open a jar and spread the conserve on toast, biscuits, or scones.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the conserve in a small dish with a spoon for easy spreading.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of fresh peach.
Pairings:
Pair with toast, biscuits, or scones for a delicious breakfast or snack.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the conserve is too thin, return it to the heat and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes until it thickens.
- If the conserve is too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice and stir well to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Follow the manufacturer's instructions for canning jars and lids.
- Use a boiling water bath to process the jars and ensure they are properly sealed.
- Discard any jars that do not seal properly or show signs of spoilage.
Food history:
Conserve is a type of jam made with whole or chopped fruit and sugar. It was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries as a way to preserve fruit for the winter months.
Flavor profiles:
This peach and vanilla conserve is sweet and fruity with a hint of vanilla.
Serving suggestions:
Serve on toast, biscuits, or scones for a delicious breakfast or snack.
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