1 / 1
Spiced Plum Jam
Spiced plum jam is a rich, sweet preserve infused with warm winter flavors. Fresh plums simmer with orange zest, cinnamon, and cloves to create a deeply aromatic spread. It makes a wonderful homemade gift during the holidays or a comforting addition to your morning toast. The natural tartness of the fruit balances the heavy sugar and fragrant spices.
Ingredients
- 1.5kg just-ripe plums, halved and stoned grated zest and juice of 1 orange
- 300ml water
- 1 cinnamon stick, halved
- 1 teaspoon whole cloves
- 1.5kg granulated sugar, warmed
- 15g butter (optional)
Instructions
- 1Place the halved plums, orange zest, orange juice, and water into a large preserving pan. Wrap the cinnamon stick and whole cloves in a small piece of muslin cloth, tie it securely, and drop it into the pan. Cover the mixture and simmer gently for 30 minutes until the fruit softens completely.
- 2Stir the warmed granulated sugar into the fruit mixture. Heat the pan gently while stirring occasionally to help the sugar dissolve. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then boil rapidly for 20 to 25 minutes until the jam reaches its setting point.
- 3Check the surface of the jam for any foam or scum. Use a slotted spoon to skim it away, or stir in the optional butter to help disperse the foam naturally.
- 4Carefully remove and throw away the muslin bag containing the cinnamon and cloves.
- 5Ladle the hot jam into warm, sterilized jars, filling each one right to the brim. Seal the jars tightly with screw-top lids or traditional waxed discs and cellophane covers. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before adding your labels.