35 minutes
A delightful homemade apricot preserve with a hint of bitter almond flavor, perfect for spreading on toast or adding to desserts.
Ripe Apricots, pitted and cut into 0.5-inch pieces
0 lb
cups
tablespoons
Apricot Kernels, optional, for a hint of bitter almond flavor
each
1. Prepare Freezer Plate
Start by placing a small plate in the freezer; this will help you test the jam's consistency later.
2. Combine Apricots and Sugar
In a medium heavy-bottomed nonreactive pot, combine the apricot pieces and sugar. If you fancy a slight bitter almond flavor, toss in the apricot kernels.
3. Cook the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium and let it cook for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
4. Test Jam Consistency
To check if your jam has reached the right consistency, drop a bit onto the chilled plate from the freezer. If it thickens and holds its shape, it’s ready.
5. Add Lemon Juice
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, stir in the lemon juice and let the mixture cool. This step is crucial as the lemon juice not only balances the sweetness but also helps in setting the preserve.
6. Transfer and Store
Transfer the cooled jam into clean containers. If you like, you can place an apricot pit in each container for a rustic touch. Store the jam in the refrigerator, where it will keep for up to a year.
7. Canning Option
For those interested in canning, prepare four 8-ounce canning jars and lids as per the manufacturer's instructions. Place an apricot kernel into each hot sterilized jar, then ladle the jam in, leaving a 0.25 inch headspace. Seal and process the jars according to the canning guidelines to ensure they are preserved safely.
Substitute apricots with peaches. Peaches have a similar texture and sweetness to apricots, and they can be spiced up with a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, aromatic twist.
Swap apricots for blueberries, which have a natural pectin that helps them set. Consider adding a hint of lemon zest or a sprinkle of cinnamon to complement the blueberries' flavor.
Substitute apricots with figs, which are less acidic and have a unique texture. You might want to add a little more lemon juice or include ingredients like ginger or honey to pair with the figs' rich flavor.
Use strawberries in place of apricots. Strawberries are more acidic and contain less pectin, so you might want to adjust the sugar and pectin according to taste and desired thickness. A splash of balsamic vinegar can enhance the flavor.
Replace apricots with raspberries. Raspberries have seeds and are quite tart, so you may wish to strain out the seeds and adjust the sugar accordingly. A splash of rosewater or Chambord can elevate the final product.
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