Are you ready to experience the exquisite taste of homemade plum jam without the guilt of excessive sugar? This low-sugar plum jam recipe is perfect for those seeking healthy meals and delicious dishes. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring minimal effort for maximum flavor, making it an ideal addition to your quick dinner ideas repertoire. Forget those store-bought jars packed with added sugar; let's embark on a journey of homemade cooking and craft a jam that's both delightful and good for you. This recipe is a testament to how simple it is to create best recipes using fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg ripe plums (any variety you prefer, but plums with a higher pectin content like Victoria plums are ideal)
- 300g granulated sugar (or use a sugar substitute like erythritol or stevia to taste, adjusting to your preference)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Pinch of ground cinnamon (optional, for added warmth)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Plums
- Wash and halve the plums. Remove the pits carefully. If using very large plums, you may want to quarter them for even cooking.
Step 2: Cooking the Plum Mixture
- Combine the plums, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using) in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Simmering and Setting
- Reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer, stirring regularly, for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until the plums have softened and broken down, and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. The longer it simmers, the thicker the jam will become.
Step 4: Testing for Setting Point
- To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful of the mixture onto a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's reached the setting point.
Step 5: Jarring and Storage
- Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small gap at the top.
- Seal the jars tightly. You can further ensure preservation by processing the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (this step is optional, but recommended for longer shelf life).
- Allow the jars to cool completely. You should hear a satisfying “pop” as the lids seal.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe plums: The riper the plums, the more flavorful your jam will be.
- Don’t rush the simmering process: Patience is key to achieving the perfect consistency.
- Sterilize your jars: This is crucial for preventing spoilage and ensuring your jam remains safe to eat.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of ginger or cloves for a warming twist.
- Citrus Burst: Include the zest of an orange or lemon for a brighter flavor profile.
- Berrylicious Blend: Mix in other berries like raspberries or blueberries for a delicious combination.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the type of plums and sugar used. For a general estimate (using granulated sugar), a serving of this low-sugar plum jam would contain approximately:
- Calories: 80-100
- Sugar: 15-20g
- Fiber: 2-3g
Enjoy your delicious and healthy homemade low-sugar plum jam! Spread it on toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or simply savor it with a dollop of plain yogurt. This easy recipe is a perfect addition to your collection of healthy and flavorful food recipes. It’s a great way to showcase your homemade cooking skills and impress your family and friends with a truly delicious and healthy treat.