Homemade Apricot Jam with Fresh Lemon

Apricot Jam

Category: Jams & Preserves
Serves: 2 jars
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Choose the Right Apricots
   Begin by selecting ripe apricots that are free of blemishes. Look for fruit that is vibrant in color and slightly soft to the touch. This will ensure the best flavor and texture for your jam.

2. Prepare the Apricots
   Wash the apricots thoroughly, then slice them in half and remove the pit. Once you’ve removed all the pits, place the apricot halves in a large bowl. This step is crucial to avoid any bitterness that may come from the pits.

3. Add Sugar and Lemon
   Sprinkle the granulated sugar over the apricots, ensuring an even coating. Next, squeeze the juice from one lemon, straining it through a fine mesh sieve to remove any seeds and pulp. Add the freshly squeezed lemon juice to the bowl of apricots and sugar. The lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps the jam set properly.

4. Let the Mixture Rest
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it rest for 30 minutes to an hour. This allows the apricots to release their natural juices, creating a flavorful base for the jam.

5. Sanitize Jars and Lids
   While the apricot mixture rests, take the time to sanitize your jars and lids. Follow the guidelines provided by the Ministry of Health to ensure that the jars are properly sterilized. This step is vital for the preservation of your jam.

6. Cook the Jam
   Transfer the apricot mixture into a large saucepan or pot. Over medium heat, cook the apricots and sugar mixture, stirring occasionally. As it heats up, the apricots will begin to break down. If you notice any foam or scum forming on the surface, skim it off to ensure a smooth, clear jam. This is particularly important if the apricots have some spots on the skin.

7. Check the Jam’s Consistency
   After about 30 minutes of cooking, check the consistency of the jam. To do this, place a small spoonful of the jam on a cold plate and let it cool for a moment. Run your finger through the jam; if it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready. If it’s too runny, continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently.

8. Jar the Jam
   Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, it’s time to jar it. Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sanitized jars, leaving about 1 cm (1/2 inch) of space at the top to allow for expansion. To avoid spilling, you can use a funnel designed for jams.

9. Seal the Jars
   Secure the lids tightly on each jar, but don’t overtighten them. The heat from the jam will create a vacuum seal, which will help preserve the jam for a longer period.

10. Check the Vacuum Seal
    After the jars have cooled, check if the vacuum seal has formed correctly. Press gently in the center of each lid—if you don’t hear a “click-clack” sound, the jar has sealed successfully. This ensures that your jam will last for months without refrigeration.

11. Enjoy Your Apricot Jam
    Now that your apricot jam is sealed and properly cooled, it’s ready to be enjoyed. The sweet, tangy flavor of fresh apricots combined with the natural sweetness of sugar and the zing of lemon will make this jam a delicious addition to your morning toast or afternoon pastries. Store in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Tips for Success:

• Lemon Juice: Adding lemon juice is essential for both flavor and the setting of the jam. The acidity from the lemon helps the pectin in the apricots activate and set the jam properly.

• Consistency Test: Make sure to test the jam’s consistency before jarring. If it’s too thin, it won’t set properly, and if it’s too thick, it may be difficult to spread.

• Storage: Once opened, store the jam in the refrigerator. Unopened jars can be stored in a pantry or cool cupboard.

Enjoy your homemade apricot jam on toast, pastries, or as a filling for your favorite baked goods!