Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 pounds of plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of orange juice
- 1 tablespoon of orange zest
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cardamom
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Canning jars with lids
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped plums, sugar, orange juice, orange zest, cardamom, and salt. Stir to combine.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens and coats the back of a spoon.
4. Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool for 10 minutes.
5. Using a ladle, transfer the jam to sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
6. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth, and seal the jars with the lids.
7. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
8. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a wire rack.
9. Once the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of the lid. If the lid pops back up, 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-high heat for boiling, medium-low heat for simmering
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 4 cups of plum jam.
Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 40
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: 15mg
Total Carbohydrates: 10g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any variety of plums for this recipe.
- You can substitute lemon juice and zest for the orange juice and zest.
- You can use ground cinnamon or ginger instead of cardamom.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use honey instead of sugar for a healthier option.
- Add chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, for a crunchy texture.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a potato masher to break down the plums if you prefer a smoother jam.
- To test if the jam is done, place a small amount on a plate and let it cool. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's ready.
- Sterilize the canning jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before using them.
Storage Instructions:
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the jam, simply spoon out the desired amount and microwave it for 10-15 seconds, or until warm.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the plum jam in a small bowl with a spoon, or spread it on toast or biscuits.
Garnishes:
Garnish the plum jam with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of orange.
Pairings:
This jam pairs well with cheese, crackers, and bread.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the plum jam with a side of fresh fruit, such as sliced peaches or berries.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out.
- If the jam is too thin, continue simmering it until it thickens to your desired consistency.
Food Safety Advice:
- Always use clean, sterilized jars and lids to prevent bacterial growth.
- Follow proper canning procedures to ensure the jars are sealed properly.
Food History:
Jam-making has been a popular way to preserve fruit for centuries. The addition of spices, such as cardamom, was common in medieval times.
Flavor Profiles:
This plum jam has a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of citrus and spice.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the plum jam as a condiment for breakfast or as a dessert topping.
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