As the summer months approach, many of us find ourselves surrounded by an abundance of fresh plums, ripe for the picking. While it’s tempting to devour them all immediately, there’s a way to preserve their sweetness and flavor for months to come – by making plum freezer jam. This simple and delicious process allows you to capture the essence of the plums and enjoy them throughout the year, whether on toast, in yogurt, or as a topping for ice cream or oatmeal.
Freezer jam is a game-changer for those who love jam-making, as it eliminates the need for canning and allows for a more relaxed approach to preserving. With just a few simple ingredients and some basic equipment, you can create a batch of plum freezer jam that will become a staple in your pantry. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process step-by-step, covering everything from preparation to storage and beyond.
Why Make Plum Freezer Jam?
Freezer jam is a popular choice among jam-makers for several reasons. Firstly, it’s incredibly easy to make, requiring minimal equipment and no special canning knowledge. Secondly, it’s a great way to preserve the flavor and texture of the plums, without sacrificing their natural sweetness. And thirdly, it’s a versatile product that can be used in a variety of ways, from topping toast and yogurt to using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
But why plums, you might ask? Plums are an excellent choice for freezer jam due to their natural sweetness and tartness, which provides a perfect balance of flavors. They’re also relatively easy to work with, as they have a soft, fleshy texture that makes them easy to mash and puree. And let’s not forget the health benefits – plums are packed with antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, making them a nutritious addition to your diet.
Ingredients and Equipment
To make plum freezer jam, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups of fresh or frozen plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of water
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 package of pectin (optional)
You’ll also need the following equipment:
- A large pot
- A blender or food processor
- A fine-mesh strainer
- A glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid
Preparing the Plums
The first step in making plum freezer jam is to prepare the plums. If using fresh plums, wash and dry them thoroughly, then pit and chop them into small pieces. If using frozen plums, simply thaw them first and chop them into small pieces.
Next, place the chopped plums in a large pot and add the sugar, water, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the plums are soft and tender.
Mashing and Pureeing the Plums
Once the plums are soft and tender, use a blender or food processor to mash and puree them until they’re smooth and creamy. You can also use a potato masher or a fork to mash the plums if you prefer a chunkier texture.
Transfer the pureed plums to a fine-mesh strainer and press on the solids to extract as much juice as possible. Discard the solids and reserve the juice.
Adding Pectin (Optional)
If you want to add pectin to your plum freezer jam, now is the time to do it. Pectin is a natural occurring substance found in fruit that helps to thicken the jam and give it a more gel-like consistency. You can use commercial pectin or make your own by cooking down the plum juice with a little sugar and water.
Follow the package instructions for adding pectin to your plum jam, or use the following recipe:
| Homemade Pectin Recipe | ||
|---|---|---|
| 1 cup of plum juice | 1/2 cup of sugar | 1/4 cup of water |
| Combine the ingredients in a small saucepan and bring to a boil over high heat, stirring occasionally. |
Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the mixture for 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches the desired consistency.
Assembling the Jam
Once the plums are pureed and the pectin is added (if using), it’s time to assemble the jam. Transfer the plum mixture to a glass jar or container with a tight-fitting lid, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
Seal the jar or container and store it in the freezer for up to 6 months. To use, simply thaw the jam overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.
Using Your Plum Freezer Jam
Now that you’ve made your plum freezer jam, it’s time to start using it! Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Spread it on toast or biscuits for a sweet and tangy breakfast or snack
- Use it as a topping for yogurt, oatmeal, or ice cream
- Fill cakes, pastries, or muffins with the jam for a delicious dessert
- Use it as a glaze for meats or cheeses
Recap and Key Points
In this article, we’ve covered the basics of making plum freezer jam, from preparing the plums to assembling the jam. Here are the key points to remember:
- Use fresh or frozen plums, pitted and chopped
- Add sugar, water, and lemon juice to the plums and bring to a boil
- Mash and puree the plums until smooth and creamy
- Add pectin (optional) to thicken the jam
- Assemble the jam in a glass jar or container and store in the freezer
- Use the jam as a topping for toast, yogurt, or ice cream, or as a filling for cakes and pastries
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of fruit instead of plums?
A: Yes, you can use other types of fruit, such as peaches, cherries, or blueberries, to make freezer jam. Simply adjust the amount of sugar and pectin according to the fruit’s natural sweetness and tartness.
Q: How do I know when the jam is done?
A: The jam is done when it has reached the desired consistency and has thickened slightly. You can test the jam by placing a small amount on a plate and letting it cool to room temperature. If it’s too runny, continue cooking the jam until it reaches the desired consistency.
Q: Can I can the jam instead of freezing it?
A: Yes, you can can the jam instead of freezing it. However, be sure to follow safe canning practices to ensure the jam is properly sterilized and sealed to prevent spoilage.
Q: How long does the jam last in the freezer?
A: The jam will last for up to 6 months in the freezer. Once thawed, it’s best to use it within a few weeks for optimal flavor and texture.
Q: Can I make the jam without pectin?
A: Yes, you can make the jam without pectin. Simply cook the plums and sugar mixture until it reaches the desired consistency, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. However, be aware that the jam may not thicken as much without pectin.