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Homemade Spiced Plum and Orange Jam
Fresh plums, still plump and tart, meet warm winter spices in this deeply aromatic spread. You'll simmer the fruit with bright orange zest, cinnamon, and cloves until it transforms into a rich, ruby-red preserve. It's a comforting addition to your morning toast and doubles as a thoughtful homemade gift during the holidays. The natural tartness of the plums perfectly balances the sugar, so it isn't overly sweet.
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 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 completely before boiling. If you boil it too soon, the jam might become grainy. Once dissolved, increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. 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 discard 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.
Notes
- Cooling: Allow the sealed jars to cool completely at room temperature before adding your labels.
- Testing the set: Place a small plate in the freezer before you start. Spoon a little hot jam onto the cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's ready.
- Gifting: Top each sealed jar with a square of decorative cloth tied with a ribbon for a beautiful homemade gift.