Hey there, kitchen enthusiasts! We’re here to introduce you to your new favorite fruity spread: our radiant homemade lemon jam! Imagine a zesty, citrusy, sweet spread, bursting with the sunshine-filled essence of lemons.
Picture spreading it on a slice of warm toast, and as you take a bite, it’s like a fantastic flavor party in your mouth! A mélange of sweet, sour, and tangy notes play on your taste buds, piquing your senses, and sparking joy in every bite.
Our jam is a vibrant celebration of lemons! One of nature’s very own sweet-tart confections, lemons are a true gift, and transforming them into this gorgeous zesty lemony jam truly does justice to their beauty. The visual appeal of the clear, golden brew, combined with the intense citrus aroma can seriously rival any conventional store-bought jam!
Enough with the teasing. You can practically taste the citrusy goodness, right? We’re thrilled to walk you through this recipe!
Lemon Jam Recipe
Equipment
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Large, deep pot
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups
- Mason jars (with lids)
Ingredients
- 6 large lemons preferably organic
- 3 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 cups of water
- 1/2 teaspoon pure vanilla extract optional
Instructions
- Start by thoroughly washing and drying your lemons. Cut them in half and squeeze out the juice, making sure to catch any seeds, and reserve it aside.
- Slice the squeezed lemon halves into very thin slices, and don’t disregard any bits – everything goes in there it will give the jam a beautiful intensity and depth.
- Place the lemon slices, lemon juice, sugar, and water in your pot and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer, stirring often, until the jam thickens this will take approximately 1 hour. The jam should thicken and coat the back of a spoon. If you have a candy thermometer, the temperature should reach 220°F (104°C), also known as the “thread stage.”
- Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. If using, stir in the vanilla extract.
- While the jam is hot, carefully ladle it into your sterilized mason jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top, and seal immediately.
Notes
This lemon jam recipe is perfect for various cuisines, from classic American breakfasts to European-inspired pastries and desserts. It’s also suitable for vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free diets.
Make it for a weekend brunch to impress your guests, or prepare it as a homemade gift for friends and family. You can also use it as a secret ingredient in your baking or as a flavorful addition to your favorite dishes.
There you have it, lovely folks! A delightful homemade lemon jam that gives you a burst of sunshine on even the gloomiest of days. We encourage you to try it, share it, and tell us how much you loved it!
Recommended Pairing food:
Pair your lemon jam with some classic scones, or let it sit pretty on a buttery croissant. It goes fabulously well with virtually any pastry!
Recommended Pairing Drink:
Try a crisp, cool glass of Prosecco. Its light, fruity notes will beautifully complement the citrusy tang of the jam.
For a non-alcoholic drink serve this lemon jam with a warm cup of herbal tea, such as chamomile or lemon balm, to enhance the citrusy flavors.
Useful Tips:
FAQs:
Can I use any other type of lemons?
Surely, though the taste might vary slightly. The regular supermarket lemons work just great!
Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
While bottled lemon juice may work in a pinch, fresh lemon juice provides the best flavor and ensures the optimal balance between sweet and tangy.
How long does the jam last?
Properly stored, it can last up to 3 months.
Can I freeze lemon jam?
Yes, you can freeze lemon jam for up to a year. Thaw it in the refrigerator before using.
Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Reducing the sugar may affect the jam’s texture and shelf life. However, you can experiment with alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that these may change the flavor and consistency.
Now that you have the perfect recipe for tangy, sweet, and refreshing lemon jam, it’s time to put on your apron and get cooking!
This versatile and delicious condiment will become a staple in your kitchen, adding a burst of sunshine to your everyday meals.
So, gather your ingredients, and let’s spread the joy of homemade lemon jam together!
