How to Make Jam: A Step-by-Step Guide

Homemade jam is a delicious and versatile treat that can be enjoyed on toast, biscuits, yogurt, and more. It's also a great way to use up excess fruit. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make jam:

Ingredients:

- 2 pounds of fruit (such as strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or peaches) - 1 cup of sugar - 1/4 cup of lemon juice (optional) - 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) of powdered pectin (optional)

Equipment:

- A large pot or Dutch oven - A potato masher or fork - A candy thermometer (optional) - Canning jars and lids - A boiling water canner

Instructions:

1. Prepare the fruit. Wash and hull the fruit. If you're using large fruit, such as peaches, you can also peel and slice them. 2. Combine the fruit, sugar, and lemon juice in a large pot or Dutch oven. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. 3. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15 minutes, or until the fruit is soft and juicy. 4. Mash the fruit with a potato masher or fork. You can mash it to your desired consistency. 5. If desired, add powdered pectin. This will help the jam to thicken. Bring the mixture back to a boil and stir constantly for 1 minute. 6. Test the jam for doneness. Drop a small spoonful of jam onto a cold plate. If the jam wrinkles when you push your finger into it, it's done. 7. Remove the jam from the heat and let it cool for 5 minutes. 8. Ladle the jam into hot canning jars. Leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar. 9. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth and put on the lids. Screw on the rings finger-tight. 10. Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 10 minutes. This will seal the jars and prevent spoilage. 11. Let the jars cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Tips:

- For a sweeter jam, add more sugar to taste. - For a tarter jam, add more lemon juice to taste. - If you don't have a candy thermometer, you can test the jam for doneness by dropping a small spoonful into a glass of cold water. If the jam sinks to the bottom, it's done. - You can store homemade jam in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks.