Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Oh wow, you guys! I just made the yummiest jam ever. It’s all peachy and warm with a tiny zing of ginger.

I love how the sweet peaches mix with cozy spices. Every spoonful makes me smile big. It’s like a hug in a jar, for real.

You gotta try this. It’s super easy, and you can spread it on toast or swirl it in yogurt. I promise, you’ll wanna make it again and again!

So, wanna whip up this spiced peach ginger jam with me? Let’s get our jars ready. You’re gonna love it just like I do!

Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Why You’ll Love This Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

If you’ve never made jam before, this Spiced Peach Ginger Jam is a fantastic place to start. Here are just a few reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen:

  • Bursting with Flavor: The combination of ripe peaches, fresh ginger, and warming spices like cinnamon and nutmeg makes every spoonful a delightful experience.
  • Perfectly Sweet and Zesty: The sugar balances the peaches’ sweetness, while the ginger adds a nice zing that cuts through the richness of the fruit.
  • Homemade Goodness: Making jam at home allows you to control the ingredients, ensuring there are no preservatives or artificial flavors. Plus, it’s way more fun than store-bought!
  • Versatile: You can spread this jam on toast, use it in baking, spoon it over yogurt, or mix it into smoothies for a fruity burst.
  • Gifting Idea: This jam makes a perfect homemade gift. Imagine handing a jar of this peachy goodness to a friend—instant smiles guaranteed!

Required Kitchen Tools

Before you start cooking, gather these essential kitchen tools to make the process a breeze:

  • Large Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for cooking the jam to ensure even heating.
  • Measuring Cups & Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to a perfectly balanced jam.
  • Wooden Spoon: A sturdy spoon is great for stirring the jam while it’s cooking.
  • Jar Lifter or Tongs: To safely remove hot jars from the boiling water during the canning process.
  • Sterilized Jars: For storing your jam. I recommend using mason jars or other canning jars that are sterilized to avoid any bacterial contamination.
  • Pot Holder or Oven Mitts: Safety first when handling hot jars and pots.
  • Food Processor (Optional): If you prefer a smoother jam, you can pulse the peaches in a food processor before cooking.
Ingredients

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious, spiced jam:

  • 6 Cups Fresh Peaches (Peeled, Pitted, and Chopped): Use ripe, sweet peaches for the best flavor. The sweetness of the peaches is key to the flavor profile of the jam.
  • 4 Cups Granulated Sugar: This helps the jam set and provides the sweetness that balances the spices.
  • 1 Teaspoon Ground Cinnamon: Adds a warm, cozy depth to the jam.
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Nutmeg: Nutmeg complements the cinnamon and pairs beautifully with the peaches.
  • 1/2 Teaspoon Ground Allspice: Adds a slightly peppery, aromatic flavor that enhances the warmth of the spices.
  • 1/4 Cup Fresh Lemon Juice: Lemon juice helps balance the sweetness of the peaches and brightens the overall flavor.
  • 1/4 Cup Fresh Ginger (Finely Grated): The star of this jam! Fresh ginger adds a lovely, spicy zing that makes the jam stand out.
  • 1/2 Cup Water: To help cook down the peaches and create a smooth, spreadable consistency.
  • 1 Packet Pectin (Typically 1.75 oz): Pectin helps the jam set properly. You can find pectin at most grocery stores in the baking aisle.
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Making this jam is easier than you might think! With the right ingredients and just a bit of patience, you’ll have homemade peach ginger jam ready in no time. Let’s break down the steps:

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Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

To start, you’ll need to peel and pit the peaches. The easiest way to peel peaches is by blanching them briefly in boiling water. Here’s how:

  1. Bring a large pot of water to a boil.
  2. Make an “X” on the bottom of each peach with a knife.
  3. Carefully drop the peaches into the boiling water for 30 seconds.
  4. Use a slotted spoon to remove them from the boiling water and place them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
  5. Once cooled, the skins should peel off easily.

Next, chop the peaches into small pieces, discarding the pits. Place the chopped peaches into a large bowl.

Step 2: Combine the Ingredients

In a large pot, add the following ingredients:

  • The chopped peaches
  • Granulated sugar
  • Fresh lemon juice
  • Fresh ginger (grated)
  • Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice
  • Water

Stir the ingredients to combine, ensuring that the sugar dissolves into the fruit mixture.

Step 3: Cook the Jam

Now it’s time to cook the jam. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally. You’ll want to cook the jam for 25-30 minutes or until the peaches soften and the mixture begins to thicken.

As the jam cooks, it will bubble and reduce. Keep an eye on the consistency. You want the jam to thicken enough to coat the back of a spoon. If you’d like a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender or a food processor to puree the jam to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Add the Pectin

Once the jam has thickened, it’s time to add the pectin. Follow the instructions on the pectin packet (usually adding it directly into the boiling jam) and stir well. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Test the Jam’s Set

To test if your jam has set properly, place a spoonful of jam on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam—it should wrinkle and separate, indicating that it’s ready. If it’s too runny, you can cook it a bit longer. If it’s too thick, add a little more water to loosen it up.

Step 6: Jar the Jam

Once your jam has reached the perfect consistency, it’s time to jar it. Be sure to sterilize your jars before filling them. You can do this by placing the jars in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes or running them through the dishwasher on a hot cycle.

Using a ladle, carefully pour the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue.

Seal the jars with sterilized lids, and process them in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes to ensure they are sealed properly.

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Variations for Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

While this recipe is already packed with flavor, there are a few variations you can try to personalize your jam:

  • Add a Dash of Vanilla: For a richer, sweeter flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla extract to the jam once it’s finished cooking.
  • Infuse with Herbs: Add a sprig of fresh rosemary or thyme during the cooking process for a subtle herby note.
  • Use Other Spices: Experiment with other spices like cloves, cardamom, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
  • Mix in Other Fruits: Combine peaches with other fruits like apricots, strawberries, or plums for a more complex flavor profile.
How to Serve Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

How to Serve Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Once your jam is ready, it’s time to enjoy it! Here are a few ways to serve and use your jam:

  • On Toast: Spread the jam on a warm piece of toast, and add a dollop of butter for the ultimate breakfast treat.
  • In Baked Goods: Use it as a filling for pastries, tarts, or thumbprint cookies.
  • In Yogurt or Oatmeal: Swirl the jam into your morning yogurt or drizzle it over oatmeal for a burst of flavor.
  • As a Glaze: Use the jam as a glaze for meats like chicken or pork. It adds a touch of sweetness and spice that enhances the dish.
  • With Cheese: Serve with a cheese platter, pairing it with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sweet and savory combination.

Storing Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Homemade jam should be stored properly to ensure it lasts. Here’s how to store your peach ginger jam:

  • Unopened Jam: Keep unopened jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. It will stay fresh for up to a year.
  • Opened Jam: Once opened, store your jam in the refrigerator. It should last for about 3-4 weeks.
  • Freezing: If you want to store jam for a longer period, you can freeze it in small batches. Make sure to leave space at the top of the jar for expansion when freezing.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – 1 Tablespoon)

NutrientAmount
Calories50
Total Fat0g
Saturated Fat0g
Cholesterol0mg
Sodium0mg
Total Carbohydrates13g
Dietary Fiber0g
Sugars12g
Protein0g

Spiced Peach Ginger Jam

Recipe by Nancy SmithCourse: Uncategorized
Servings

4-6

jars
Prep time

20

minutes
Cooking time

40

minutes
Calories

50

kcal

Ingredients

  • 6 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped

  • 4 cups granulated sugar

  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg

  • 1/2 teaspoon ground allspice

  • 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice

  • 1/4 cup finely grated fresh ginger

  • 1/2 cup water

  • 1 packet pectin

Directions

  • Prepare the peaches by blanching and chopping them.
  • Combine the peaches, sugar, lemon juice, ginger, cinnamon, nutmeg, allspice, and water in a large pot.
  • Bring the mixture to a boil and then reduce to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
  • After 25-30 minutes, add the pectin and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  • Test the jam for the right consistency, then jar it.
  • Process jars in a water bath for 10-15 minutes, then store.

Conclusion

Making Spiced Peach Ginger Jam at home is a rewarding experience that adds a personal touch to your kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a jam that’s bursting with flavor, warmth, and sweetness. Whether you enjoy it on toast, as a topping for desserts, or mixed into your morning yogurt, this jam will quickly become a pantry staple. Give it a try and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade peach ginger jam all year long!

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