Indulge in a delightful taste of summer with this Prickly Pear Jam recipe. Known for its vibrant color and unique flavor, prickly pear fruit offers an exquisite taste experience that pairs perfectly with biscuits, toast, and desserts. This recipe is simple and does not require pectin, allowing the natural sweetness of the fruit to shine through. Below, you will find detailed instructions along with necessary ingredients to create this delectable jam.
Prickly Pear Jam
This homemade jam is not only easy to make but also a wonderful way to preserve the essence of prickly pears. The process is straightforward, making it accessible for both novice and seasoned home cooks. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step instructions to create this luscious jam.
### Ingredients
- 8 cups prickly pears (peeled and chopped)
- 5 cups sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- Start by thoroughly washing the prickly pears in cold water. Wearing gloves, carefully cut off the ends and peel the skin using a sharp knife. Once peeled, chop the flesh into cubes.
- In a large pot, combine the chopped prickly pear flesh, sugar, and lemon juice. If desired, add cinnamon and vanilla extract for an extra layer of flavor.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves and the fruit releases its juices. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally, and monitor the consistency of the jam. It should thicken as it cooks.
- To test the jam, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; if it holds its shape, it’s ready for canning. If it’s still runny, continue to simmer and test again after a few minutes.
- Once the desired consistency is achieved, remove the pot from heat. Quickly ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
- Seal the jars with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and storage. Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Enjoy your homemade prickly pear jam spread over warm biscuits, used as a topping for cheesecake, or simply by the spoonful! Its vibrant flavor and stunning color will surely impress anyone lucky enough to try it.
source: mamalikestocook.com
