Description
Homemade damson jam celebrates British countryside charm with rich, deep purple sweetness. Rich plum notes and traditional preserve techniques make this simple spread a delightful kitchen treasure perfect for morning toast and afternoon tea.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruits:
- 1 kg (2.2 pounds) ripe damson plums
Liquids:
- 350 ml (11.8 fluid ounces) water
- Juice of 1 lemon
Sweeteners:
- 1 kg (2.2 pounds) granulated sugar
Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse damsons under cool running water, carefully removing all stems and discarding any damaged fruits.
- Transfer clean damsons into a heavy-bottomed preserving pan, adding sufficient water to prevent initial sticking and fresh lemon juice for enhanced flavor and pectin activation.
- Gently simmer over medium-low heat for approximately 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fruits completely break down and release their natural juices.
- Gradually incorporate granulated sugar, continuously stirring until fully dissolved and integrated with the fruit mixture.
- Increase heat and rapidly boil the mixture, maintaining a consistent rolling boil for 10-15 minutes, stirring periodically to prevent potential scorching.
- Perform the wrinkle test by placing a small amount of jam on a chilled plate – if the surface wrinkles when pushed, the jam has reached setting point.
- Remove from heat, carefully skimming any foam from the surface using a metal spoon.
- Methodically extract fruit stones from the jam, ensuring a smooth final texture.
- Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving minimal headspace to prevent contamination.
- Securely seal jars, label with date and contents, then allow to cool completely at room temperature.
- Store sealed jars in a cool, dark pantry or cupboard for optimal preservation.
Notes
- Quickly remove stones after cooking for smoother texture and easier spreading.
- Choose ripe, deep purple damsons for intense, rich flavor and natural sweetness.
- Adjust sugar quantity based on fruit’s natural tartness, tasting as you cook for perfect balance.
- Consider using a potato masher to break down fruit and create more rustic jam consistency.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4
- Calories: 273
- Sugar: 67 g
- Sodium: 1 mg
- Fat: 0 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 68 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0.2 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg