Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 lbs of ripe plums
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tsp of ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp of ground nutmeg
- 1/2 tsp of ground ginger
- 1/4 tsp of ground cloves
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or food processor
- Canning jars with lids and bands
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Wash and pit the plums, then chop them into small pieces.
2. In a large pot, combine the chopped plums, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, cloves, and lemon juice.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the plums are soft and the mixture thickens, about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and use an immersion blender or food processor to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Return the pot to the heat and continue cooking, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens even more and reaches a spreadable consistency, about 30-45 minutes.
6. While the plum butter is cooking, sterilize the canning jars and lids in boiling water.
7. Once the plum butter is done, ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
8. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth, then place the lids and bands on the jars.
9. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
10. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat
Serving size:
Makes approximately 4-5 cups of plum butter
Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 40
Total fat: 0g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Total carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a deeper flavor.
- You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice.
- You can adjust the spices to your liking or omit them altogether.
Variations:
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for a subtle sweetness.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use other stone fruits, such as peaches or apricots, instead of plums.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a splatter guard to prevent the plum butter from splattering while cooking.
- Stir the mixture frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Use a wide-mouth funnel to make filling the jars easier.
- Label the jars with the date and contents for easy reference.
Storage instructions:
Store the plum butter in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Reheating instructions:
Plum butter can be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer it warm, simply heat it in a saucepan over low heat until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the plum butter on toast, biscuits, or scones. It also makes a great topping for yogurt or ice cream.
Garnishes:
Sprinkle a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg on top of the plum butter for a decorative touch.
Pairings:
Plum butter pairs well with cheese, such as brie or goat cheese.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the plum butter with a side of fresh fruit or a salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the plum butter is too thin, continue cooking it until it thickens to your desired consistency.
- If the plum butter is too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Always use clean, sterilized jars and utensils when canning.
- Follow proper canning procedures to prevent spoilage and contamination.
- Discard any jars that show signs of spoilage, such as mold or an off odor.
Food history:
Fruit butter has been a popular way to preserve fruit for centuries. Plum butter is a traditional European spread that has been enjoyed for generations.
Flavor profiles:
Plum butter is sweet and tangy, with warm spices that add depth and complexity.
Serving suggestions:
Plum butter is a versatile spread that can be enjoyed in many ways. Spread it on toast, muffins, or bagels for a quick breakfast. Use it as a filling for pastries or cakes. It also makes a great gift for friends and family.
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