Prickly Pear Orange Marmalade Recipe
Overview:
Prickly Pear Orange Marmalade is a delightful fusion of prickly pear cactus, sweet oranges, and sugar, resulting in a vibrant and tangy marmalade perfect for spreading on toast or using as a flavorful topping. This recipe, shared by a seasoned home cook, carries a touch of nostalgia and simplicity, making it an ideal choice for those looking to explore unique canning recipes.
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Prep Time: 24 hours (includes overnight soaking)
- Total Time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
- Servings: 1 jar
- Calories per serving: 371.1
- Recipe Category: Fruit
- Keywords: Weeknight, Canning, Easy
Ingredients:
- 1 prickly pear cactus
- 3/8 cup sugar
- 1/4 orange
Nutrition Information (per serving):
- Calories: 371.1
- Fat: 0.3g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 1.2mg
- Carbohydrates: 94.2g
- Fiber: 1.3g
- Sugar: 90.6g
- Protein: 1.3g
Recipe Instructions:
| Step | Instructions |
|---|---|
| 1 | Remove skins from prickly pears. |
| 2 | Slice and remove skins. |
| 3 | Cover orange with water and soak overnight. |
| 4 | Add orange juice, prickly pear, and sugar to the soaked orange. |
| 5 | Heat slowly and stir until the sugar is dissolved. |
| 6 | Continue stirring frequently and boil for about 30 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the fruit becomes clear. |
| 7 | Pour the marmalade into hot, dry, sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of space from the top if using paraffin. Otherwise, fill the jars to the top. |
| 8 | Seal the jars securely. |
Recipe Tips and Notes:
- Choosing Prickly Pears: When selecting prickly pears, look for ones that are firm and free of bruises or blemishes. The fruit should have vibrant colors and minimal blemishes on the skin.
- Handling Prickly Pears: Use caution when handling prickly pears, as they have spines that can cause irritation. Wear gloves and use tongs when handling the fruit to avoid contact with the spines.
- Soaking the Orange: Allowing the orange to soak overnight helps soften the peel and extract its flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the marmalade.
- Consistency: Stirring frequently while boiling ensures even cooking and helps prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Boil until the marmalade reaches the desired thickness and the fruit becomes translucent.
- Sterilizing Jars: Properly sterilizing jars is essential for preserving the marmalade and preventing bacterial growth. Wash the jars in hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and sterilize them by boiling in water for 10 minutes.
- Sealing Jars: For long-term storage, use canning lids and rings to seal the jars after filling them with the hot marmalade. Ensure the lids are tightly sealed to maintain freshness.
- Storage: Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate the marmalade and consume it within a few weeks for optimal taste and quality.
Conclusion:
Prickly Pear Orange Marmalade is a delightful treat that captures the essence of sunny citrus and exotic prickly pear flavors in a sweet and tangy spread. With its straightforward preparation and delicious results, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for canning enthusiasts and fruit lovers alike. Enjoy this homemade marmalade on toast, biscuits, or as a flavorful addition to your favorite recipes! 🍊🌵
