Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 1/2 pounds of star fruit, washed and sliced
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1/4 cup of water
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Mason jars with lids
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the sliced star fruit, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
2. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
3. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 30-40 minutes, or until the star fruit is soft and the mixture has thickened.
5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
6. Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the mixture until smooth.
7. Return the pot to the stove and cook the pureed mixture over medium heat for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency.
8. Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool for a few minutes.
9. Ladle the jam into clean mason jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
10. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and screw on the lids.
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 towel-lined countertop.
13. Once the jars have cooled, check the seals and store the jam in a cool, dark place.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 50-55 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for cooking, boiling water bath for processing
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 3-4 cups of jam.
Nutritional information:
Per 1 tablespoon serving:
Calories: 30
Total Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Total Carbohydrates: 8g
Dietary Fiber: 0g
Sugars: 7g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use lime juice instead of lemon juice.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Add a few slices of ginger for a zesty kick.
- Add a splash of rum or brandy for a boozy twist.
Tips and Tricks:
- Make sure to remove any seeds from the star fruit before slicing.
- Use a potato masher to break up any large pieces of fruit while cooking.
- Stir the jam frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- To test if the jam is done, place a small spoonful on a plate and let it cool for a minute. If it sets up and wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's ready.
- If the jam is too thick, you can add a little more water or lemon juice to thin it out.
Storage Instructions:
Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the jam, simply spoon out the desired amount and microwave it for a few seconds until warm.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon for spreading.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a slice of star fruit or a sprig of mint.
Pairings:
Serve the jam with toast, scones, or biscuits.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the jam with a cup of tea or coffee.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the jam is too thin, return it to the stove and cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the jam is too thick, add a little more water or lemon juice to thin it out.
Food Safety Advice:
- Make sure to sterilize your jars and lids before using them.
- Follow proper canning procedures to ensure that the jam is safe to eat.
Food History:
Star fruit, also known as carambola, is native to Southeast Asia and has been cultivated for centuries. It is a popular ingredient in many Asian cuisines and is often used in jams and preserves.
Flavor Profiles:
Star fruit has a sweet and tart flavor, similar to a combination of pineapple and citrus.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the jam as a condiment for breakfast or brunch.
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Taste: Tart, Sweet, Fruity, Tangy, Refreshing