Prickly pear jam –Today, I want to share a delightful recipe for Prickly Pear Jam that brings a touch of sweetness and a splash of vibrant color to your breakfast table. This jam is perfect for spreading on toast, topping your yogurt, or even as a unique filling for pastries. Let’s dive into making this delectable treat!
Prickly Pear Jam
This jam is not only delicious but also packed with the unique flavor of prickly pears. If you’ve never tried them before, you’re in for a real treat!
Ingredients
Gather the following ingredients to create your own batch of prickly pear jam:
- 4 cups prickly pear juice (from about 10 ripe prickly pears)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
- 5 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon almond extract (optional)
Instructions
Follow these steps to prepare your own prickly pear jam:
- Extracting the Juice: Start by carefully peeling the prickly pears with gloves to avoid the tiny spines. Cut the flesh into chunks, and then place them in a blender. Blend until smooth, and strain the juice through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove the seeds and pulp. You’ll need about 4 cups of juice.
- Preparing the Jam: In a large pot over medium heat, combine the prickly pear juice, lemon juice, and fruit pectin. Stir well to dissolve the pectin and bring the mixture to a rapid boil.
- Adding the Sugar: Once boiling, add the granulated sugar all at once and stir continuously. Keep boiling for about 1-2 minutes until the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture returns to a rolling boil.
- Testing for Set: To check if the jam has reached the desired consistency, you can perform a gel test by placing a small amount of jam on a cold plate and running your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it’s ready for canning.
- Canning: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal with lids, and process them in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly.
This homemade Prickly Pear Jam will last for up to a year if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator for up to a month. Enjoy the unique taste of prickly pears, and share this fantastic jam with your friends and family!