Are you ready to capture the vibrant taste of summer and preserve it for those long winter months? Forget sugary, store-bought jams! This recipe for no-sugar-added plum preserves lets the natural sweetness of ripe plums shine, creating a healthy and delicious treat for your toast, yogurt, or even a savory pork dish. It's a remarkably easy recipe, perfect for homemade cooking, and a fantastic addition to your collection of easy recipes and quick dinner ideas. Let's get started on this journey to delicious, healthy homemade preserves!
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ripe plums (any variety, but plums like Italian or Damson work beautifully)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional, but adds a warm touch)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional, adds a hint of spice)
- Pinch of salt
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Potato masher or immersion blender (optional)
- Sterilized jars and lids (pint-sized are ideal)
- Canning funnel (optional, but helpful)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Prepare the Plums: Wash and pit the plums. You can either slice them or roughly chop them – it’s entirely up to your preference. Smaller pieces will result in a smoother preserve.
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Simmer the Plums: Place the chopped plums in the saucepan over medium heat. Add the lemon juice, cinnamon (if using), nutmeg (if using), and salt. Stir gently to combine.
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Cook Down the Plums: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 20-30 minutes, or until the plums have softened and released their juices. The cooking time will depend on the ripeness of your plums.
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Mash (Optional): If you prefer a smoother preserve, use a potato masher or immersion blender to partially mash the plums. Leave some chunks for a more rustic texture if you like.
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Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot plum preserves into your sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean.
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Seal the Jars: Secure the lids and rings onto the jars.
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Process (For long-term storage): For optimal shelf stability, process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (adjust time based on your altitude – consult a canning guide for specifics). This step is crucial for long-term storage. If you don't plan on preserving for longer than a few weeks, store them in the refrigerator.
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Cool and Store: Let the jars cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal. Check the seals – if they are sealed properly, they'll be safe for storage in a cool, dark pantry for several months.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe plums: The riper the plums, the sweeter your preserves will be, even without added sugar.
- Adjust spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices – cardamom or ginger would also be delicious additions.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in a tough, less flavorful preserve.
Variations:
- Spicy Plum Preserves: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few finely chopped chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- Citrus Twist: Incorporate orange or lime zest for a brighter, more complex flavor.
- Herbal Infusion: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during the simmering process for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the type of plums used and serving size.
- Calories: Approximately 50-70
- Sugar: Naturally occurring from the plums
- Fiber: Good source of fiber from the plums
This no-sugar-added plum preserves recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy the deliciousness of fresh plums while promoting healthy eating habits. It's a perfect example of healthy meals that are both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Enjoy!