Are you ready to experience the burst of juicy plum flavor without the sugar overload? This low-sugar plum jam recipe is perfect for those seeking delicious, healthy homemade preserves. It’s surprisingly easy to make, even for beginner cooks, and requires minimal ingredients. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this vibrant and flavorful spread, perfect on toast, scones, or even as a glaze for meats! This recipe provides quick dinner ideas and is an excellent addition to your healthy meal repertoire. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups ripe plums, pitted and chopped (about 1 lb)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar (or your preferred low-calorie sweetener, see variations)
- 1 pouch (1.75 oz) liquid pectin
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Plums
Wash and pit your plums thoroughly. You can either chop them roughly or use a food processor for a smoother jam. Aim for roughly ¼ inch sized pieces.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chopped plums, lemon juice, sugar, and liquid pectin. Stir well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 3: Bring to a Rolling Boil
Place the saucepan over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, which means a boil that cannot be stirred down. This is crucial for setting the jam. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Boil for One Minute
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, continue to boil hard for exactly one minute, stirring constantly. This is a critical step for the jam's texture.
Step 5: Remove from Heat & Skim
Remove the saucepan from the heat and quickly skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface.
Step 6: Fill and Seal Jars
Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean, place lids and rings on the jars, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (check your local altitude for adjustments). Allow to cool completely; you should hear a satisfying "pop" sound as the jars seal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Plum Jam:
- Use ripe plums: The riper the plums, the more flavorful your jam will be.
- Sterilize your jars: This is essential for preserving the jam and preventing spoilage. Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water, rinse well, and then sterilize in boiling water for 10 minutes.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in a tough jam. Stick to the recommended one-minute boil time.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg for a warm, spiced plum jam.
- Sweetener options: Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup, honey, or stevia, adjusting to your taste. Keep in mind that different sweeteners will affect the setting point.
- Add other fruits: Combine plums with other fruits like apples or raspberries for a more complex flavor profile.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the specific sweeteners used. The nutritional information below is an estimate using granulated sugar. Consult a nutrition calculator for a more accurate estimate based on your chosen sweetener:
- Calories: Approximately 100-150
- Sugar: Approximately 15-25g
- Fiber: Approximately 2-3g
This low-sugar plum jam recipe provides a delicious and healthy way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. It's a perfect homemade gift, too! Enjoy the process of making this delightful spread – and the even greater pleasure of savoring the fruits of your labor.