Jewel-Toned Plum Jam: A Taste of Autumn Sunshine
Craving homemade plum jam? My plum jam recipe turns juicy plums into a glossy, rich spread. The best plum recipes are right here! Get the recipe now! ... Comfort Classics
Jewel-Toned Plum Jam : Autumn Sunshine in a Jar
Ever fancied making your own jam? Honestly, it's way easier than you think. This plum jam recipe is perfect for beginners, and the results? Oh my gosh, divine. Think summer memories bottled.
A Taste of Heritage
This is not just any plum jam . preserving fruit dates back centuries. it’s a fantastic way to enjoy seasonal produce all year round.
We are creating a plum jam , with this plum jam recipe and other plum jam recipes , we honor this tradiction.
This recipe is pretty straightforward, needs about 1 hour and 30 minutes. this homemade jam batch makes enough for 4-6 small jars.
Perfect for gifting (or keeping all to yourself!).
Why You'll Love This Jam
This easy plum jam recipe is packed with flavour. it's bursting with plum goodness and a hint of tartness. plus, it's a great source of antioxidants.
Imagine spreading this on your morning toast. or swirling it into your porridge. this plum jam it is truly special.
So you are thinking about how to sterilize jars for jam . well, it's really important! you don't want any nasty stuff growing in your jam.
I usually pop mine in the oven at 160° c for about 10 minutes.
Time for ingredients. Grab your plums. We will use some Victoria plum jam and some Damson plum jam recipe
Jewel-Toned Plum Jam: A Taste of Autumn Sunshine Recipe Card
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Gather Your Plumtastic Ingredients
Alright, grab these bits and bobs. you'll need 1 kg of ripe plums , like victoria or damson ones. some sugar, about 750g .
A splash of water and some lemon juice. i like adding a teaspoon of cinnamon too. it gives it a lovely warmth.
Jewel-Toned Plum Jam : Ingredients & Gear
Right then, let's talk about what you need. We are making some lush plum jam recipes after all. This easy plum jam recipe will be the star of your breakfast!
Main Ingredients for the Best Plum Jam
Here's what you'll need for this scrumptious plum jam :
- 2.2 lbs (1 kg) ripe Victoria plum jam or Damson plum jam recipe , pitted and chopped. Really ripe ones, mind.
- 3 ½ cups (750g) granulated sugar. Plain old sugar works a treat.
- ½ cup (120ml) water. Tap water is fine, nothing fancy.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice. Not the bottled stuff, honestly .
- Optional: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or ginger. Just a pinch for a bit of warmth.
Plums: They should be plump and slightly soft. The better the plum, the better plum jam . Sorted.
Spicing Things Up - Seasoning Notes
Don't underestimate the spice! a touch of cinnamon or ginger adds warmth. lemon juice is essential. it helps with the setting.
Also, it balances the sweetness. no lemon juice? use lime, in a pinch.
Some people use plum jam with pectin , but if you're using ripe Victoria plum you might be alright without.
My nan always used a secret mix of spices. It was her special touch. You should try experimenting.
Essential Equipment for Jam Recipes Homemade
Okay, so you don't need a ton of stuff. But these are the essentials:
- Large, heavy-bottomed saucepan. Prevents sticking.
- Wooden spoon. For stirring!
- Candy thermometer or a small plate. For testing the set.
- Sterilized jars. ( How to sterilize jars for jam ? Boil them for 10 minutes).
- Jar lifter. Keeps you from burning yourself.
Don’t have a candy thermometer? The "wrinkle test" is your friend. Put a plate in the freezer before you start.
Honestly, making your own homemade jam is so satisfying. Give these plum recipes a try! It's lovely.
Jewel-Toned Plum Jam Recipes : A Taste of Autumn Sunshine
Oh my gosh, who doesn't love a good plum jam recipe ? honestly, there's something so comforting about a jar of homemade jam , especially when it's bursting with the flavour of plum recipes .
This easy plum jam recipe turns late-summer plums into liquid gold. this plum jam is so rewarding! let me walk you through it.
This recipe is a medium difficulty. don't worry, you can do it! you will need about 1 hour and 30 minutes for this.
You will get approximately 4-6 half-pint jars of plum jam .
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row
Essential mise en place is key! first, wash, pit, and roughly chop 2.2 lbs of ripe plums. we're talking victoria, damson, whatever lovely plums you can find.
Then, gather 3 ½ cups of sugar, ½ cup of water, and 2 tablespoons of lemon juice. a little cinnamon or ginger? feel free!
Time-saving tip: get the jars sterilizing while you prep! this is how to sterilize jars for jam. put them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
Safety first, always be super careful around hot water and sugar. hot sugar is like lava, trust me!
Step-by-Step: Jam-Making Magic
Ready to dive in and create some delicious plum jam recipes ? Here's how:
- Combine plums, sugar, water, and lemon juice in a big saucepan.
- Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring like mad.
- Lower the heat to medium and cook, stirring occasionally.
- Test for setting after about 45 minutes . Use a candy thermometer: 220° F . Or, the wrinkle test!
- Spoon a bit of jam onto a cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it, you're golden!
- Take the plum jam from the heat, and skim off any foamy bits.
- Carefully ladle the jam into your sterilized jars.
- Seal those jars tight and let them cool. Listen for that satisfying pop!
Pro Tips: Secret Jam-Making Weapons
Want to make seriously good Plum Jam Recipes ?
Don't be tempted to skip the lemon juice. it helps with the set and adds a bright tang. one of the common mistakes to avoid is rushing the setting process.
Be patient! it's better to undercook than overcook. plum jam recipes overcooked is like toffee, and nobody wants to eat that.
Make-ahead? sure! you can refrigerate the chopped plums and sugar overnight to speed things up the next day.
Recipe Notes: Jamming Like a Pro!
So, you're ready to tackle this plum jam recipe ? ace! before you dive in headfirst, let's chew over a few essential bits, yeah? consider these the cheat codes to epic jam success.
I’ve made a few batches of homemade jam in my time, and trust me, a little prep goes a long way.
Remember that time i almost set my kitchen on fire? good times!
Serving Suggestions: Jam Today, Gourmet Tomorrow!
Think beyond just spreading it on toast, yeah? our jewel-toned plum jam shines on a cheese board, especially with a crumbly wensleydale.
It's absolutely stonking with some scones. oh, and a cheeky dollop in your morning porridge is pure bliss. or, if you're feeling proper fancy, try glazing a roast chicken.
A glass of chilled prosecco alongside is practically compulsory, innit?
Storage Tips: Keep That Jam Fresher Than Fresh!
Once you've carefully filled your sterilized jars for jam , and they've cooled and pinged satisfyingly, store them in a cool, dark place.
Like a pantry, or the back of your cupboard, you know? unopened, your plum jam will happily sit for a good year.
Once opened, shove it in the fridge. it'll last for a few weeks if you keep it clean and away from curious fingers.
I always say if you are using plum jam recipes for the first time follow the guidelines closely.
If you find yourself swimming in plum recipes and want to store them for later, you can use the freezer.
Place the jam in a freezer safe container. do not forget to label and date before freezing! thaw it overnight in the fridge.
It might not be quite as firm as freshly made, but it's still ruddy delicious.
Variations: Jamming Your Way!
Fancy a twist on the classic plum jam ? go wild! for a bit of festive warmth, chuck in a teaspoon of ground ginger or cinnamon while it's cooking.
If you’re avoiding refined sugar, try a plum jam with pectin for a naturally sweetened easy plum jam recipe . you could even swap some of the plums for chopped apples – plum and apple jam is a proper treat.
I used victoria plum jam to level up my afternoon tea!
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in a Jar!
One tablespoon of this plum jam recipe is roughly 50-60 calories, mostly from the natural sugars in the plums and added sugar.
It’s got a tiny bit of protein and fat, and around 13-15g of carbohydrates. plums are a good source of antioxidants and fibre, so a little bit of this plum jam can actually be good for you! plus, making damson plum jam recipe at home means you know exactly what's going in it – no nasty preservatives!
So, there you have it. everything you need to know to make an absolute belter of a plum jam . don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
Now get jamming!
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know when my plum jam recipe is ready and has reached the setting point?
There are two main ways to test if your plum jam is ready. The first is using a candy thermometer – you’re aiming for 220°F (104°C). The other method, often called the "wrinkle test," involves placing a small spoonful of hot jam on a chilled plate from the freezer for a minute. If the surface wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's ready to jar up!
Can I make this plum jam recipe without pectin?
Yes, you can make plum jam without added pectin, as plums naturally contain pectin. However, the amount of pectin can vary depending on the plum variety and ripeness. Using slightly underripe plums can help, as they contain more pectin. Also, ensuring you cook the jam long enough to reach the setting point is crucial for a successful set.
My plum jam didn't set properly, what can I do?
Don't despair! If your plum jam is too runny, you can re-cook it. Add a tablespoon of lemon juice (or pectin if you have it) to the jam, bring it back to a boil, and cook for a few more minutes, testing frequently for setting. Be careful not to overcook it this time, or you'll end up with plum candy! Alternatively, just embrace the "sauce" and use it on ice cream or pancakes – a delicious outcome either way!
How long does homemade plum jam last, and how should I store it?
Properly sealed and processed plum jam can last up to 1-2 years in a cool, dark place like a pantry. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator, where it should last for several weeks. Always check for any signs of mold before consuming, and if in doubt, throw it out – better safe than sorry!
Can I use different types of plums for this plum jam recipe?
Absolutely! While the recipe suggests Victoria or Damson plums, you can experiment with other varieties. Different plums will yield slightly different flavors and colors. Just be aware that some plums are naturally sweeter or more tart, so you might need to adjust the sugar level accordingly. Taste as you go – that's the best part of cooking!
Is plum jam recipe healthy? What is the nutritional value?
Plum jam is a delicious treat, but like most jams, it's relatively high in sugar. As a guide, per serving (about 1 tablespoon), plum jam has approximately 50-60 calories, less than 1g protein, less than 1g fat, 13-15g carbohydrates and 12-14g sugar. It's best enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Consider making a low-sugar version using jam sugar or adding other fruits like apples which can help to increase the volume of the jam whilst reducing sugar.
