Homemade orange jam recipe
Oranges, with their tangy flavor and natural sweetness, are a delight in themselves. But why not transform these citrus fruits into a delicious homemade jam? Orange jam is a kitchen staple, perfect for spreading on toast or adding a touch of sweetness to your favorite desserts. Here is a simple and easy recipe.
Ingredients :
– 4 cups peeled and diced oranges (about 4-5 medium sized oranges)
– 2 cups granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon of orange zest (optional)
Instructions :
1. Prepare the oranges:
– Wash the oranges carefully.
– Peel the oranges and remove the seeds.
– Cut the oranges into small uniform pieces.
2. Cook the oranges:
– In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the cut oranges, sugar and lemon juice.
– If using orange zest, add it to the mixture.
– Stir the ingredients well to mix them.
3. Bring to a boil:
– Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar.
4. Let it simmer:
– Once the mixture reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking or burning.
5. Thicken the jam:
– Let the mixture simmer and cook until it thickens. This may take around 30-45 minutes. Monitor the consistency and keep in mind that the jam will thicken further as it cools.
6. Check the consistency of the jam:
– To check if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate and let sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam and if it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready. Otherwise, continue cooking and repeat the test after a few minutes.
7. Sterilize the jars:
– While the jam is cooking, sterilize your jam jars by washing them in hot, soapy water, then placing them in a hot oven or boiling water for a few minutes.
8. Fill the pots:
– Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat.
– Carefully pour the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving a small empty space at the top.
9. Close the jars:
– Wipe the edges of the pots with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a good seal.
– Place the sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the metal rings until tight.
10. Cool and store:
– Let the jars cool to room temperature. You may hear a little “pop” sound as the lids seal.
– Store the jars in a cool, dark place.
All you have to do is enjoy your homemade orange jam on crispy toast or add it to your favorite recipes for a touch of sweet orange. Enjoy your food !