How to Make Lemon Jam: A Sweet and Tangy Delight
Lemon jam is a delightful spread that can elevate any breakfast or dessert. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the tangy flavor of lemons in a sweet, spreadable form. Whether you’re a seasoned jam-maker or a beginner, this guide will walk you through the simple steps to create your own homemade lemon jam. Let’s dive into the world of sweet and tangy with our how to make lemon jam recipe.
Ingredients
To make lemon jam, you will need the following ingredients:
– 4 cups of lemons (about 8-10 medium-sized lemons)
– 4 cups of sugar
– 1/2 cup of water
– 1 packet of pectin (optional, for a firmer set)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Lemons: Start by washing the lemons thoroughly. Remove the stems and any blemishes. Cut the lemons in half and juice them using a juicer. Set aside the lemon juice and the lemon halves.
2. Cook the Lemons: In a large pot, combine the lemon halves and water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the lemon halves are soft.
3. Strain the Lemons: Remove the lemon halves from the pot and discard them. Use a fine-mesh sieve to strain the lemon juice into a separate bowl. Discard the seeds and any remaining pulp.
4. Combine Ingredients: In the same pot, combine the strained lemon juice, sugar, and pectin (if using). Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar has dissolved.
5. Boil the Mixture: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Once it reaches a rolling boil, continue to boil for 1 minute. Remove the pot from the heat.
6. Skim the Foam: Allow the mixture to cool slightly for a few minutes. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface using a spoon.
7. Ladle into Jars: Pour the hot lemon jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth and seal the jars with the lids.
8. Process the Jars: Place the sealed jars in a boiling water bath canner. Process the jars for 10 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed.
9. Cool and Store: Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a wire rack. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing on the center of the lids. If they are firm and do not flex, your lemon jam is ready to be enjoyed!
Now that you’ve mastered the art of making lemon jam, you can enjoy this delicious spread on toast, scones, or even as a topping for ice cream. Happy jam-making!
