Recipe: Plum Jam with Cardamom

Recipe: Plum Jam with Cardamom

Plum jam with cardamom is a delightful twist on traditional fruit jams. The richness of ripe plums, combined with the aromatic and slightly spicy flavor of cardamom, creates a unique and flavorful jam that can elevate any dish. Whether spread on toast, paired with cheeses, or used in baked goods, this jam will add a deliciously spiced note to your meals.

This recipe is easy to follow and doesn’t require many ingredients, making it the perfect choice for beginners or anyone looking to add a homemade touch to their kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh plums (pitted and chopped)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 4-6 whole cardamom pods (or 1/2 teaspoon ground cardamom)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 cup water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Plums

1. Pit and Chop the Plums
   Begin by washing the plums thoroughly. Cut them in half, remove the pits, and chop them into small pieces. You can leave the skin on for added texture, but if you prefer a smoother jam, you can peel the plums before chopping.

2. Add Lemon Juice
   Place the chopped plums into a large pot or saucepan. Add the lemon juice, which will help balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the plums.

Step 2: Cook the Jam

1. Cook the Plums
   In the pot, add the water and sugar to the plums. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the plums to cook down and release their juices. This should take about 10-15 minutes. Stir the mixture regularly to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

2. Add the Cardamom
   If you are using whole cardamom pods, lightly crush them with a mortar and pestle to release the oils and add them to the pot. Alternatively, you can use ground cardamom. Add the cinnamon at this stage if you prefer a deeper flavor.

3. Simmer the Jam
   Continue to cook the mixture over medium-low heat for about 30 minutes, or until it thickens to your desired consistency. Stir frequently to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

Step 3: Test the Jam

1. Test for Doneness
   To check if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful of the mixture on a chilled plate. Let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through it. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready. If it’s still too runny, continue to cook for a few more minutes.

2. Strain the Jam (Optional)
   If you prefer a smooth jam, you can strain out the cardamom pods and any plum skins using a fine-mesh sieve. This step is optional and depends on your texture preference.

Step 4: Can the Jam

1. Prepare the Jars
   Sterilize your canning jars by placing them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes or running them through a hot cycle in the dishwasher. This helps prevent contamination and keeps the jam fresh for a longer period.

2. Fill the Jars
   Pour the hot plum jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue.

3. Seal the Jars
   Place the lids on the jars and screw them on tightly. For long-term storage, you can process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that they seal properly.

4. Cool and Store
   Let the jars cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. The jam can be kept for several months if sealed properly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

1. Serve the Jam
   Once the jam is ready, enjoy it on toast, as a topping for yogurt, or paired with cheese. It can also be used in baking or as a filling for pastries.

2. Storage
   Opened jars should be refrigerated and consumed within 3-4 weeks. Unopened jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for several months.

Tips and Variations

1. Use Other Spices
   Experiment with other warm spices, such as cloves or ginger, to customize the flavor of your jam. A pinch of nutmeg can also add depth.

2. Adjust the Sweetness
   If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar to your taste. You can also use a sugar substitute like stevia or agave syrup for a healthier option.

3. Mix with Other Fruits
   This recipe can easily be adapted to include other fruits, such as apples or pears, which pair well with plums and cardamom.

Health Benefits

1. Plums
   Plums are rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. They help support digestion, boost heart health, and can promote skin health.

2. Cardamom
   Cardamom is a spice known for its digestive benefits and anti-inflammatory properties. It also adds a warm, aromatic flavor to the jam.

3. Cinnamon
   Cinnamon is packed with antioxidants and can help lower blood sugar levels. It also adds a lovely depth of flavor to the jam.

Conclusion

Plum jam with cardamom is a delightful way to preserve the flavors of summer. This jam offers a perfect balance of sweet and spicy flavors, with the richness of plums enhanced by the aromatic warmth of cardamom. Whether you enjoy it spread on toast, as a topping for desserts, or paired with cheese, this homemade jam will add a touch of elegance and flavor to any meal. Try making it today and enjoy the delicious combination of plums and cardamom in every bite!