Description
This Homemade Orange Jam is a sweet and tangy spread made with fresh oranges, sugar, and lemon juice. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or as a gift!
Ingredients
Scale
- 35 oz (about 2.2 lbs) oranges (Seville oranges are traditional, but any variety works)
- 26 oz granulated sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 17 fl oz water
Instructions
- Prepare the oranges: Thoroughly wash the oranges. Peel them, saving the peels. Slice the peels into thin strips (about 1/8 inch wide) and remove as much of the white pith as possible to avoid bitterness. Chop the peeled oranges into segments, discarding any seeds.
- Combine ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chopped oranges, orange peel strips, sugar, lemon juice, and water.
- Cook the jam: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens to your desired consistency.
- Test for doneness: To test, place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. Run your finger through it—if it wrinkles, it’s ready. Alternatively, use a candy thermometer; the jam should reach 220°F (104°C).
- Jar the jam: Remove the jam from the heat and carefully pour it into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean, then seal with the lids.
- Invert jars: Place the sealed jars upside down on a clean surface to cool completely. This step helps create a vacuum seal.
Notes
- Orange Variety: While Seville oranges are ideal for marmalade due to their high pectin and slightly bitter flavor, you can use any orange you like. If using sweeter oranges, consider adding a bit more lemon juice to balance the sweetness.
- Peel Preparation: Be sure to remove most of the white pith from the orange peels, as it can contribute to bitterness in the jam.
- Cooking Time: Cooking times may vary depending on the juiciness of your oranges and your stove’s heat. Keep an eye on it and test frequently for the right consistency.
- Sterilizing Jars: Sterilize jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes, or use a dishwasher’s sanitize cycle.
- Storage: Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tbsp
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 12g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg