Feijoas! Those quirky, emerald green fruits that look like something out of a Dr. Seuss book. But don't let their unusual appearance fool you; these little gems pack a flavor punch that's both sweet and tangy, making them perfect for homemade jams and preserves. This feijoa jam recipe is incredibly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and time, resulting in a delicious spread perfect for toast, scones, or even as a unique glaze for meats. It's a fantastic way to preserve the fleeting feijoa season and enjoy their unique flavor all year round. Let's dive into this simple, yet rewarding, cooking adventure!
Ingredients:
- 1 kg ripe feijoas, roughly chopped (remove any blemishes)
- 750g granulated sugar (adjust to your sweetness preference)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract for added flavor
Equipment:
- Large, heavy-bottomed saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sterilized jars and lids
- Jam thermometer (highly recommended)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Feijoas
Wash and thoroughly chop the feijoas. Removing any bruised or damaged parts will help prevent fermentation and ensure a smoother jam.
Step 2: Combining the Ingredients
In your large saucepan, combine the chopped feijoas, sugar, and lemon juice. Gently stir to ensure the sugar coats the fruit. The lemon juice helps to balance the sweetness and acts as a natural preservative.
Step 3: Cooking the Jam
Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once simmering, continue to stir frequently to prevent burning, especially around the edges of the pan.
Step 4: Reaching Setting Point
This is where a jam thermometer is invaluable. Continue cooking and stirring until the jam reaches a setting point of 104-106°C (219-223°F). This ensures your jam will properly set and have the right consistency. If you don't have a thermometer, you can perform the wrinkle test: place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. Let it cool slightly, then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it's ready.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Once the jam reaches setting point, stir in the vanilla extract (if using). This adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
Step 6: Jarring the Jam
Carefully ladle the hot jam into your sterilized jars, leaving about half a centimeter of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal the jars tightly with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure long-term preservation.
Tips for Success:
- Ripe Feijoas are Key: Use ripe, but not overripe, feijoas for the best flavor and texture.
- Sterilizing Jars: Properly sterilizing your jars is crucial for preventing spoilage. Wash them thoroughly in hot, soapy water, then rinse and sterilize in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
- Adjust Sweetness: The amount of sugar can be adjusted to your taste. If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar by 100-200g.
Variations:
- Spicy Feijoa Jam: Add a pinch of chili flakes or a small piece of chopped chili for a spicy kick.
- Ginger Feijoa Jam: Incorporate a tablespoon of grated fresh ginger for an aromatic twist.
Nutritional Information (per 100g, approximate):
This will vary slightly depending on the exact ingredients and ratios used. It's best to use a nutritional calculator for a precise calculation based on your specific recipe. However, feijoa jam generally contains natural sugars and provides some fiber.
This homemade feijoa jam is a delightful treat, a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed into something truly special. Enjoy the sweet rewards of your labor, and the unique flavor this delicious spread brings to your table. It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family, a little taste of sunshine preserved in a jar.