Homemade Orange Jam Recipe Without Preservatives
Making your own orange jam at home is not only a rewarding culinary experience but also a healthier alternative to store-bought versions that often contain preservatives and additives. This homemade orange jam recipe uses simple ingredients and is free from any artificial additives, allowing you to enjoy the pure, natural flavor of oranges. With just a few steps, you can create a delicious and versatile jam that can be enjoyed on toast, scones, yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and pastries. Let’s dive into the recipe and discover how easy it is to make your own orange jam from scratch!
Ingredients:
- 3 kg oranges (makes approximately 2 kg pulp and peel)
- 800 g sugar
- Juice of a large lemon (or 5 tablespoons lemon juice)
- 1/4 teaspoon citric acid
- 5 cloves (optional, for an extra layer of flavor)
Utensils Needed:
- Grater
- Large pot
- Clean towel for drying oranges
- Mason jars
Instructions:
- Prepare the Oranges: Wash the oranges thoroughly under running water. Use a grater to zest the outer peel of the oranges, being careful to avoid the bitter white pith. Set the zest aside.
- Peel and Chop the Oranges: Use a sharp knife to peel the oranges, removing as much of the white pith as possible. Once peeled, chop the oranges into small pieces, discarding any seeds.
- Cook the Oranges: In a large pot, combine the chopped oranges, orange zest, sugar, lemon juice, and citric acid. If using cloves for extra flavor, add them to the pot as well. Stir the mixture until the sugar has dissolved.
- Simmer: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The mixture should thicken and become jam-like in consistency.
- Test for Doneness: To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and tilt the plate. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready. If not, continue to simmer for a little longer.
- Remove from Heat: Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat and discard the cloves if used. Let the jam cool slightly.
- Jar the Jam: While the jam is still warm, ladle it into clean, sterilized mason jars, leaving a little space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to ensure a proper seal. Place the lids on the jars and tighten them securely.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars of jam to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator. The jam will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Enjoy: Once cooled, your homemade orange jam is ready to enjoy! Spread it on toast, scones, or use it as a topping for desserts. Store any leftover jam in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.
Cook Notes and Variations:
- For a smoother jam, you can blend the cooked orange mixture using a blender or immersion blender before jarring it.
- Feel free to adjust the sweetness of the jam according to your taste preferences by adding more or less sugar.
- Experiment with different citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, or grapefruits to create unique citrus jam flavors.
Keto Versions and Low-Carb Options:
- To make a keto-friendly version of this orange jam, you can substitute the sugar with a low-carb sweetener such as erythritol or stevia. Be sure to adjust the sweetness to taste.
- Alternatively, you can omit the sweetener altogether and let the natural sweetness of the oranges shine through for a lower-carb option.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. Can I use other citrus fruits for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can be adapted to use a variety of citrus fruits such as lemons, limes, or grapefruits. Feel free to experiment with different combinations to create your own unique citrus jam flavors.
2. How long will the homemade orange jam last?
When stored properly in sterilized jars in the refrigerator, homemade orange jam can last for several weeks to a few months. Be sure to consume it within a reasonable time frame and check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.
3. Can I freeze the orange jam for longer storage?
Yes, you can freeze homemade orange jam for longer storage. Simply transfer the cooled jam to freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space for expansion, and store it in the freezer for up to 6-12 months. Thaw the jam in the refrigerator before using.
Making your own orange jam at home is a simple and rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the natural flavors of citrus without any added preservatives or artificial ingredients. With just a few basic ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious and versatile jam that will elevate your breakfasts, snacks, and desserts. So why not give this easy orange jam recipe a try and add a burst of citrusy goodness to your homemade creations?
