Spiced Plum Jam

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Spiced Plum Jam.

1. Step 1

   To start your canning adventure, set up your workspace by placing six empty half-pint jars on a rack inside a large pot filled with water.

2. Step 2

   Cover the pot and bring it to a rolling boil, then lower the heat just enough to keep the jars warm while you prepare your delicious jam.

3. Step 3

   In a spacious, nonreactive 8-quart pot, mix together your chopped plums, zesty lemon peel, and fresh lemon juice.

4. Step 4

   In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, fruit pectin, and a sprinkle of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves to create a fragrant blend.

5. Step 5

   Stir this sweet mixture into the pot with the plums, ensuring everything is well combined.

6. Step 6

   Now, bring your pot to a vigorous boil over high heat.

7. Step 7

   Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat to medium-high and cook, stirring often, until the mixture reduces by at least one-third—this should take about 20 to 25 minutes.

8. Step 8

   When it’s done, remove the pot from the heat and check if it’s set to your liking.

9. Step 9

   Now comes the fun part! Carefully take one warm jar from the canning pot.

10. Step 10

    Using a wide-mouth funnel, ladle the hot jam into the jar, leaving about half an inch of space at the top.

11. Step 11

    To ensure a perfect seal, use a clean wooden chopstick to gently remove any air bubbles, then check the headspace again, adding more jam if needed.

12. Step 12

    Wipe the rim of the jar with a clean cloth, place the lid on top, and screw on the band—just snug enough, but not too tight.

13. Step 13

    Return the jar to the canning pot, cover it, and bring the water back to a rolling boil.

14. Step 14

    Process the jars for 10 minutes to ensure they’re sealed properly.

15. Step 15

    After processing, turn off the heat, remove the lid from the pot, and let the jars sit in the cooling water for about five minutes.

16. Step 16

    This little step helps create a good vacuum seal.

17. Step 17

    Once they’ve cooled, transfer the jars to a folded kitchen towel or a wooden cutting board to cool completely.

18. Step 18

    After they’re cool, check the seals—any jars that didn’t seal should be refrigerated and enjoyed soon.

19. Step 19

    The sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place, where they’ll stay fresh and delicious for at least a year.

20. Step 20

    Enjoy the satisfaction of your homemade jam, perfect for spreading on toast or sharing with friends!.