Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 lbs fresh plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup honey
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Canning jars with lids and rings
- Water bath canner
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped plums, honey, vanilla bean and lemon juice.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes, or until the plums are soft and the mixture has thickened.
4. Remove the vanilla bean and discard.
5. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until smooth.
6. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
7. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids and rings on top.
8. Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes.
9. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a wire rack.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
Makes about 4 cups of jam
Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 40
Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 11g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any variety of plums in this recipe.
- If you don't have honey, you can use granulated sugar instead.
- You can use vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
- Substitute the lemon juice with orange juice for a citrus twist.
- Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or pecans, for a crunchy texture.
Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the jam occasionally while it's cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Use a potato masher to break up any large chunks of plum while the jam is simmering.
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. If it sets and wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's ready.
Storage instructions:
Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the jam, place it in a small saucepan over low heat and stir until warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon for spreading.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lemon.
Pairings:
This jam pairs well with toast, scones, or biscuits.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a cup of tea or coffee.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thick, add a little water or lemon juice to thin it out.
- If the jam is too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Be sure to sterilize your canning jars before using them to prevent contamination.
- Follow proper canning procedures to ensure the jam is safe to eat.
Food history:
Jam-making has been a popular method of preserving fruit for centuries. The addition of honey and vanilla adds a modern twist to this classic recipe.
Flavor profiles:
The sweetness of the honey and the warmth of the vanilla complement the tartness of the plums, creating a well-balanced flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this jam as a sweet and fruity addition to your breakfast or brunch spread.
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