Homemade Sweet and Tangy Plum Jam Recipe

Ingredients

  • 4 pounds of plums
  • 4 cups of sugar
  • 1/4 cup of lemon juice
  • 1 package of pectin (1.75 oz)
  • 1/2 cup of water

Steps and instructions

  1. Wash the plums and cut them in half to remove the pits.
  2. In a large pot, combine plums and water. Simmer over medium heat until plums are soft, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the softened plums into a purée. If you prefer a chunkier jam, you can skip this step.
  4. Add the sugar to the pot and stir until it's completely dissolved.
  5. Stir in the lemon juice and pectin. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly.
  6. Once the mixture is boiling, continue to boil it for 1 minute, then remove it from heat.
  7. Spoon the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
  8. Seal the jars and process them in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.
  9. Remove the jars from the bath and let them cool completely. Make sure the lids have sealed by pressing down on the center of each one - if the lid can be pushed down, it's not sealed.
  10. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. They can be kept for up to 1 year. Once opened, jam should be stored in the refrigerator and used within 3 weeks.

Tools for making

  • Large pot - A large pot is needed to cook the plum jam and allow room for stirring.
  • Potato masher or immersion blender - Use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash the softened plums into a purée, depending on your preferred consistency.
  • Canning jars with lids - Sterilized canning jars and their corresponding lids are necessary for storing the plum jam.
  • Water bath canner - A water bath canner is used to process the sealed jars and ensure safe preservation of the plum jam.
  • Jar lifter - A jar lifter is helpful for safely removing hot jars from the water bath canner.
  • Canning funnel - A canning funnel makes it easier to pour the hot plum jam into the jars without making a mess.
  • Ladle - A ladle is used to transfer the hot plum jam from the pot into the jars.
  • Measuring cups - Measuring cups are required to accurately measure the sugar, lemon juice, and water for the recipe.
  • Wooden spoon or spatula - A wooden spoon or spatula is needed for stirring the plum jam mixture during the cooking process.
  • Cutting board and knife - A cutting board and knife are necessary for cutting the plums in half and removing the pits.

Recipe variations

  • Add spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom for a flavorful twist.
  • Include chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts for added texture.
  • Experiment with different types of plums, such as red plums, black plums, or damson plums.
  • Replace some or all of the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
  • Add a splash of vanilla extract or almond extract for a subtle flavor enhancement.
  • Mix in other fruits like peaches, apricots, or berries to create a mixed fruit jam.
  • Create a spicy plum jam by adding chopped jalapenos or red pepper flakes.
  • For a tangy twist, incorporate a small amount of balsamic vinegar or apple cider vinegar.
  • Make it boozy by adding a splash of rum, brandy, or red wine.
  • For a chunkier jam, leave some of the plum skins on while cooking.

Recipe overview

This Plum Jam recipe is a sweet and tangy spread perfect for toast, biscuits, or even as a glaze for meats. Made with fresh plums, sugar, and a hint of lemon, this jam captures the essence of summer in a jar. This recipe takes you through the process of preparing and canning your own homemade jam so you can enjoy it throughout the year. It's a simple process, but it does require patience and precision. However, the result is worth it - a beautifully preserved plum jam that you can enjoy yourself or give as a thoughtful homemade gift. From preparing the fruit to processing the jars, this recipe has everything you need to know to make your own delicious plum jam at home.

Common questions

  1. How long does it take to make plum jam?
    The total time required to make plum jam is approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, including preparation, cooking, and processing time.
  2. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
    Yes, you can substitute plums with other fruits of your choice. However, keep in mind that the cooking time and amount of sugar may vary depending on the fruit you use.
  3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
    The amount of sugar in this recipe is necessary for proper preservation and texture. It is not recommended to reduce the sugar amount as it can affect the jam's set and shelf life.
  4. Can I use frozen plums?
    Yes, frozen plums can be used to make plum jam. Thaw the plums before using and adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  5. How do I know if the jam is properly set?
    To test the jam's set, you can do a spoon or plate test. Take a small amount of jam and place it on a chilled plate or spoon. If it quickly forms a skin and wrinkles when pushed with your finger, the jam is set. If not, continue cooking it for a few more minutes and test again.
  6. Can I double the recipe?
    Yes, you can double or halve the recipe as per your preference. Just ensure you adjust the cooking time accordingly and use a large enough pot to accommodate the increased quantity.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

The origin of plum jam has deep roots in Eastern European culture, particularly in the Balkans where plum is considered the national fruit. Plums are so beloved in this region that Serbia even holds the world record for largest plum production. The tradition of making plum jam was born out of the need to preserve the bountiful plum harvests for the cold winter months, and it became an integral part of the local culinary heritage. The recipe was often passed from generation to generation, with each family adding their own unique twists. Today, plum jam continues to be a beloved treat, often enjoyed with a thick slice of fresh bread, a dollop of thick cream, or as a sweet filling in pastries. Its rich, sweet, and slightly tart flavor is a reminder of warm summer days and the abundance of the fruit-laden plum trees.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.