Are you ready to capture the sweet essence of summer? Forget store-bought jams packed with sugar and preservatives. This sugar-free peach jam recipe lets you savor the vibrant taste of ripe peaches without the guilt. It's incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal ingredients and time, making it a perfect project for both beginner and experienced cooks looking for delicious, healthy alternatives to traditional preserves. This recipe is ideal for those seeking healthy meals, quick dinner additions (a dollop on your yogurt!), or simply a homemade treat that's bursting with natural sweetness. It’s one of those best recipes that showcases the simple beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups ripe peaches, peeled and sliced (about 6 medium peaches)
- 1/2 cup erythritol or your preferred sugar substitute (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds (or 1/2 teaspoon pectin for a firmer jam)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Peaches
Wash and peel the peaches. You can easily peel peaches by scoring an "X" at the bottom and blanching them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Then, plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. The skins will slip right off! Slice the peaches into smaller pieces.
Step 2: Combining Ingredients
In a large saucepan, combine the sliced peaches, erythritol (or your preferred sweetener), and lemon juice. Give it a gentle stir to coat the peaches evenly.
Step 3: Simmering the Jam
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the peaches have softened and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent burning. If you're using pectin, add it during the last 5 minutes of simmering. If using chia seeds, stir them in during the last 10 minutes and allow them to absorb the moisture and thicken the jam naturally.
Step 4: Checking for Doneness
The jam is ready when a small amount spooned onto a chilled plate sets quickly. You should be able to tilt the plate and the jam shouldn't run.
Step 5: Canning (Optional)
If you wish to can your jam for longer storage, sterilize your jars and lids in boiling water for 10 minutes. Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids and rings, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal. (Always refer to your local canning guidelines for safety).
Tips and Variations:
- For a smoother jam, you can blend a portion of the cooked peaches before adding it back to the pot.
- Experiment with different sugar substitutes. Stevia or monk fruit are also good options. Always adjust the amount to your taste preference.
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spiced flavor.
- Enhance the flavor profile with a splash of vanilla extract at the end of cooking.
- Use other fruits like nectarines or apricots in combination with peaches for a unique flavor blend.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on the sugar substitute used and serving size. For a general estimate, one serving (about 1 tablespoon) might contain roughly 20-30 calories, minimal carbohydrates, and a good source of fiber from the peaches. Please note that this is an approximation, and the exact nutritional content depends on your specific ingredients and measurements.
This sugar-free peach jam is a delightful treat you can feel good about enjoying. Its vibrant color and delicious flavor make it perfect for spreading on toast, using as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, or even as a glaze for cakes and desserts. Enjoy the sweet taste of summer all year round with this easy and healthy recipe!