Plum Jam Recipe UK

Introduction: Imagine spreading a dollop of homemade plum jam on your morning toast, the rich, sweet flavor bursting with every bite. This simple yet delightful recipe will take you through the process of making the perfect plum jam right in your own kitchen. Using seasonal plums, you’ll create a preserve that captures the essence of summer and can be enjoyed year-round.

Ingredients:

• 1 kg ripe plums (any variety will work, but Victoria plums are ideal)
• 700 g granulated sugar
• 1 lemon (juiced)
• 1 tsp butter (optional, to reduce foaming)
• Sterilized jars (for storing the jam)

Preparation Steps:

1. Prepare the Plums: Start by washing the plums thoroughly. Remove the pits and chop the fruit into halves or quarters, depending on your texture preference.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped plums, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Allow this mixture to sit for about 30 minutes. This will help draw out the juices from the plums, creating a natural syrup.

Cooking Process:
3. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves. Once dissolved, increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
4. Cook the Jam: Allow the jam to boil for about 15-20 minutes. To check for doneness, use the cold plate test: place a spoonful of jam on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it’s ready.
5. Skim Off Foam: If you notice any foam forming on the surface, you can skim it off with a spoon. Adding a teaspoon of butter can help reduce foaming if desired.

Bottling the Jam:
6. Prepare the Jars: While the jam is cooking, make sure your jars are sterilized. You can do this by washing them in hot, soapy water, rinsing, and then placing them in a preheated oven at 100°C (212°F) for about 15 minutes.
7. Fill the Jars: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Carefully pour the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1 cm of headspace at the top.

Sealing and Storing:
8. Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue. Place the sterilized lids on top and screw them on tightly.
9. Cool and Store: Let the jars cool to room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed, your plum jam should last for up to a year.

Variations:

• Spiced Plum Jam: Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves while cooking for a spiced flavor.
• Plum and Ginger Jam: Incorporate finely chopped ginger for a zesty twist.

Using Your Jam:
Now that you have your delightful plum jam, here are a few creative ways to use it:

• Spread on Toast or Scones: The classic way to enjoy jam.
• As a Filling: Use it in pastries, cakes, or pancakes.
• Sauce for Meats: Combine with mustard for a sweet glaze on roasted meats.

Conclusion: Making plum jam at home is not only rewarding but also allows you to control the sweetness and flavors to your preference. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create a delicious jam that brings a touch of summer to your kitchen all year round. So, gather your ingredients and start your jam-making adventure today!