Cantaloupe Peach Jam Recipe: A Sweet Delight for Any Occasion
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of summer with this delightful Cantaloupe Peach Jam, a recipe that beautifully blends the juicy sweetness of cantaloupe and peaches, creating a luscious spread that will brighten up your breakfast table or serve as a delectable addition to your favorite desserts. Perfect for slathering on warm toast, dolloping on pancakes, or simply enjoying by the spoonful, this jam is not only easy to make but also a healthy treat that embodies the essence of fruit preserves.
Overview of the Recipe
- Preparation Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Yield: 6 half-pint jars
- Recipe Category: Melons
- Servings: Approximately 6 half pints
- Rating: 5 stars based on 10 reviews
- Keywords: Fruit, Low Protein, Vegan, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, < 4 Hours, Easy
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Cantaloupe | 4 cups, diced |
| Peaches | 4 cups, diced |
| Sugar | 6 cups |
| Fresh Lemon Juice | 1/4 cup |
| Fresh Lemon Rind | 1 tablespoon |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Content |
|---|---|
| Calories | 852.7 kcal |
| Total Fat | 0.5 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.1 g |
| Cholesterol | 0 mg |
| Sodium | 19.2 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 219.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2.6 g |
| Sugars | 216.9 g |
| Protein | 1.9 g |
Instructions
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Prepare the Fruit: Start by adding the diced cantaloupe and peaches to a large pot. Make sure the fruit is fresh and ripe for the best flavor. The combination of these two fruits will create a wonderfully aromatic jam.
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Cook the Fruit Mixture: Place the pot over medium heat, stirring the fruit constantly. This initial cooking phase should last about 15 minutes, allowing the fruits to soften and release their natural juices.
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Incorporate Sugar and Lemon Juice: Once the fruit has softened, add the sugar and fresh lemon juice to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, ensuring that the sugar begins to dissolve into the mixture.
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Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This step is crucial as it helps to cook the fruit further and activates the pectin in the fruit, which will help the jam thicken.
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Simmer Until Thickened: After reaching a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer. Continue to stir frequently for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency. You can test the thickness by placing a small spoonful on a plate and running your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it’s ready.
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Add Lemon Rind: Just before finishing, stir in the fresh lemon rind. This will add a bright, zesty flavor to the jam and enhance its overall taste. Cook for an additional 3 minutes, stirring constantly to incorporate the rind evenly.
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Prepare for Canning: Once the jam has thickened, remove the pot from the burner. Carefully skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface. This step ensures a clear, beautiful jam without any cloudiness.
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Jar the Jam: Pour the hot jam mixture into pre-warmed, sterilized jars, filling each jar to about 1/4 inch from the top. It’s important to leave this space to allow for proper sealing.
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Remove Air Bubbles: Using a non-metallic spatula or a skewer, gently stir the jam in each jar to remove any trapped air bubbles. This will help in achieving a good seal.
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Seal the Jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any sticky residue, which can prevent the lids from sealing properly. Cover each jar immediately with its lid and screw on the bands until they are fingertip tight.
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Process in Water Bath: Finally, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes to ensure they are sealed and safe for storage. This step helps to kill any remaining bacteria and creates a vacuum seal as the jars cool.
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Cool and Store: Once processed, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a clean kitchen towel or cooling rack. Once cool, check that the lids have sealed properly by pressing down in the center of each lid; it should not pop back. Store any unsealed jars in the refrigerator and consume them within a few weeks.
Serving Suggestions
This Cantaloupe Peach Jam is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Consider these serving suggestions to make the most out of your homemade jam:
- On Toast or Bread: Spread a generous layer of the jam on toasted bread or English muffins for a sweet breakfast treat.
- With Yogurt: Stir into plain yogurt for a delicious and nutritious snack or breakfast option.
- As a Dessert Topping: Use it as a topping for pancakes, waffles, or ice cream to add a burst of fruity flavor.
- In Baking: Incorporate it into baked goods, such as muffins or cakes, for added moisture and sweetness.
Storage
When stored properly, your Cantaloupe Peach Jam can last for up to one year in a cool, dark pantry. After opening, keep it refrigerated and use it within a few weeks for the best flavor and freshness.
Conclusion
Making your own Cantaloupe Peach Jam is a rewarding and delightful endeavor, allowing you to preserve the vibrant flavors of summer fruit while creating something truly special to share with family and friends. With its simple ingredients and straightforward process, this jam is a fantastic way to enjoy the sweet, refreshing taste of cantaloupe and peaches year-round. Enjoy the satisfaction of homemade preserves that elevate your culinary creations and add a touch of sweetness to your day!
For more delicious recipes and culinary inspiration, visit lovewithrecipes.com and explore our extensive collection of fruit preserves and other delightful dishes.
