This quick and naturally sweet clementine jam is the perfect addition to your holiday breakfast table. It’s made without any added sugar, relying instead on the natural sweetness of fresh clementines and a touch of honey or an alternative natural sweetener if you prefer. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also offers a delightful, fresh twist on traditional jams.
Ingredients
- Clementines: 10 medium-sized, peeled and deseeded
- Honey: 2 tablespoons (optional, or substitute with maple syrup or a sugar-free sweetener like stevia or erythritol to taste)
- Lemon Juice: From 1 lemon
- Water: ¼ cup
- Pectin: 1 teaspoon (optional, for thicker consistency)
Instructions
- Prepare the Fruit:
- Peel the clementines and remove as much of the white pith and seeds as possible to avoid bitterness.
- Roughly chop the clementines to help them break down faster during cooking.
- Cook the Clementines:
- Place the chopped clementines in a medium saucepan. Add water and lemon juice. The lemon juice not only adds flavor but also helps preserve the color and acts as a natural pectin to help thicken the jam.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Add Sweetener and Pectin:
- Once the clementines have softened and the mixture looks syrupy (about 10-15 minutes), stir in the honey and pectin if using. Adjust the sweetness according to your taste.
- Continue to cook for another 5-10 minutes or until the desired thickness is reached. Keep in mind that the jam will thicken further as it cools.
- Mash the Fruit:
- For a smoother jam, use a potato masher or an immersion blender to mash the clementines to your desired consistency directly in the pan.
- Test for Doneness:
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s done. If it’s too runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
- Cool and Store:
- Remove the jam from heat and let it cool completely. Transfer the cooled jam to sterilized jars.
- The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or frozen for longer storage.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this delicious clementine jam on toasted whole-grain bread, over pancakes, or stirred into yogurt for a festive breakfast treat.
This quick clementine jam is not only easy to make but also wonderfully aromatic and flavorful. It’s a healthier alternative to traditional sugary jams, and the bright citrus flavor is sure to add a special touch to any holiday breakfast or brunch. Enjoy!