There’s something magical about the aroma of spiced plum jam simmering on the stove. It takes me back to crisp autumn mornings, watching my grandmother transform baskets of ripe plums into jars of glistening, purple preserves. Today, I’m sharing my twist on this classic recipe, infused with warm spices and a hint of citrus that’ll make your taste buds dance.
Spiced Plum Jam Recipe
Recipe at a Glance
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4-5 8oz jars
Ingredients
- 4 lbs ripe plums, pitted and chopped
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tsp ground cardamom
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
Let’s Make Some Magic!
- Prepare the Plums: Wash, pit, and chop your plums into small pieces. Don’t worry about peeling them – the skins add beautiful color and texture to your jam.
- Mix and Macerate: In a large bowl, combine the chopped plums, sugar, cardamom, and allspice. Stir gently to coat the fruit. Let this mixture sit for about 2 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the juices to release.
- Cook the Jam: Transfer the plum mixture to a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Add the lemon zest and juice. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
- Simmer and Spice: Reduce heat to medium-low and let the jam simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. As it cooks, you’ll notice the mixture thickening and taking on a glossy sheen.
- Test for Doneness: To check if your jam is ready, place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes. Drop a spoonful of jam onto the cold plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done!
- Jar It Up: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal with lids.
The Secret to Smooth and Glossy Jam
For that perfect smooth and glossy consistency we’re aiming for, here are a few pro tips:
- Patience is Key: Don’t rush the cooking process. Low and slow is the way to go for a silky-smooth texture.
- Skim the Foam: As your jam cooks, you may notice foam forming on the surface. Gently skim this off for a clearer, glossier result.
- The Cold Plate Test: This isn’t just for checking doneness – it also helps you gauge the consistency. If it’s too runny, cook a bit longer.
Serving Suggestions
This spiced plum jam is versatile enough to shine in various dishes:
- Spread it on warm, buttery toast for a comforting breakfast
- Use it as a glaze for roasted pork or duck
- Swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity kick
- Pair it with sharp cheeses on a charcuterie board
A Jar Full of Memories
As the sweet aroma of cardamom and allspice fills your kitchen, you’ll know you’ve created something special. This spiced plum jam isn’t just a preserve – it’s a jar full of autumn memories, ready to be savored all year round.
So, gather your plums and spices, and let’s create some culinary magic together. Happy jam-making!
Did you try this recipe? We’d love to see your creations! Share your photos and tag us on social media.
