How to Make Plum Jelly from Fresh Plums
Plum jelly is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of plums with the tanginess of vinegar, creating a unique flavor that is perfect for spreading on toast or using as a glaze for meats. Making plum jelly from fresh plums is a rewarding process that allows you to enjoy the fruits of your labor throughout the year. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of how to make plum jelly from fresh plums, ensuring that you end up with a delicious and homemade product.
Ingredients
Before you start making plum jelly, gather the following ingredients:
– 2 pounds of fresh plums, pitted and chopped
– 3 cups of sugar
– 1 cup of white vinegar
– 1 packet of liquid pectin (optional)
Equipment
To make plum jelly, you will need the following equipment:
– A large pot
– A fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth
– A wooden spoon or spatula
– Jars and lids for canning
Instructions
1. Prepare the Plums: Begin by washing the plums thoroughly and removing the pits. Chop the plums into small pieces and place them in a large pot.
2. Cook the Plums: Add the sugar and vinegar to the pot with the plums. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar.
3. Add Pectin (Optional): If you are using liquid pectin, follow the package instructions to add it to the pot. This step is optional but can help ensure a set jelly.
4. Reduce the Mixture: Once the mixture comes to a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The mixture should start to thicken and reduce in volume.
5. Strain the Mixture: Using a fine-mesh sieve or cheesecloth, strain the mixture to remove the seeds and skins. Collect the strained liquid in a separate pot.
6. Cook the Jelly: Return the strained liquid to the pot and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
7. Can the Jelly: Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface. Ladle the hot jelly into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth and place the lids on the jars.
8. Process the Jars: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure the jelly is properly sealed. After processing, remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a towel. Once cooled, check the seals by pressing on the center of the lids. If they are not sealed, refrigerate the jars and use them within a few weeks.
Enjoy Your Homemade Plum Jelly
Congratulations! You have successfully made plum jelly from fresh plums. This homemade treat is sure to be a hit with friends and family. Serve it with your favorite bread, use it as a glaze for meats, or enjoy it on its own. Happy canning!
