Sunday, August 4, 2013

Plum Jam

Plum Jam
Tart and bursting with summer plum flavors, this jam makes my heart sing!

2 lbs red plums
Scant 2 to 2 1/4 cups sugar
2 Tbs freshly squeezed lemon juice

Cut plums in half and remove pits.  Further cut plum halves in half and place in a large bowl.  Add the sugar and lemon juice and mix well.  Set aside for about an hour, stirring once.

Place a small plate in the freezer (for testing if jam is ready later).

Pour the plums into a large non-reactive pot over medium-high heat and bring to a simmer.  Reduce heat to a medium-low/medium heat and simmer for about an hour or until the mixture becomes dark and thickened.

When jam appears thickened, remove the plate from the freezer and place a small dollop of jam in the center.  Return the plate to the freezer for about 2 minutes then remove again.  Touch the edge of the jam with your finger, it should wrinkle up a bit and feel thick.  If it's still runny, then it isn't done yet and you should continue simmering for another 5 - 10 minutes.  Repeat test until jam is thickened.

Pour jam into clean containers and allow to cool on the counter.  Cover and refrigerate for up to 4 weeks.

This recipe made about 3 cups of jam.

Liv Life Note:  I am not an expert on canning as my one attempt did not turn out well.  Follow the directions of a proven canning site for proper canning procedures.