Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds of plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of fresh mint leaves, chopped
- 1/4 cup of fresh coriander leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Canning funnel
- Ladle
- Jar lifter
- Magnetic lid lifter
- Bubble remover tool
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped plums, sugar, mint leaves, coriander leaves, and lemon juice.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the plums have released their juices.
3. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture has thickened and reached a jam-like consistency.
4. While the jam is cooking, prepare the canning jars by washing them in hot soapy water and sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
5. Using a canning funnel and ladle, carefully fill the hot jars with the hot jam, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
6. Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
7. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids and bands on top, tightening the bands just until they are finger-tight.
8. Using a jar lifter, place the jars in a boiling water bath and process for 10 minutes.
9. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a towel-lined countertop for 24 hours.
10. Check the seals on the jars by pressing down on the center of the lid. If it pops up and down, the jar is not sealed properly and should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for cooking the jam, boiling water bath for canning
Serving size:
Makes approximately 4-5 half-pint jars
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 tablespoon): 35 calories, 0g fat, 9g carbohydrates, 0g protein, 0mg sodium
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Peaches or apricots can be substituted for the plums
- Honey or maple syrup can be substituted for the sugar
- Basil or parsley can be substituted for the mint and coriander
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm spice flavor
- Use lime juice instead of lemon juice for a different citrus flavor
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy twist
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches 220°F, the temperature at which it will set properly.
- Stir the jam frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
- Use a wide-mouthed pot to allow for faster evaporation and a quicker cooking time.
Storage instructions:
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Reheating instructions:
To enjoy the jam, simply open a jar and spread it on toast, biscuits, or scones.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon for easy spreading.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or coriander leaves.
Pairings:
Serve the jam with cheese and crackers for a savory-sweet snack.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the jam with a side of fresh fruit or yogurt for a healthy breakfast.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thin, return it to the pot and cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water or fruit juice to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Always use clean, sterilized jars and equipment when canning to prevent contamination.
- Follow proper canning procedures to ensure the jars are sealed properly and the food is safe to eat.
Food history:
Jam-making has been a popular way to preserve fruit for centuries, dating back to ancient Rome and Greece.
Flavor profiles:
This plum jam has a sweet and tangy flavor with a refreshing hint of mint and coriander.
Serving suggestions:
Enjoy this plum jam on toast, biscuits, scones, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
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