Damson Jelly
Damson jelly offers a rich, tangy flavor with a smooth, glossy texture, perfect for spreading on toast or as a delightful accompaniment to cheeses and desserts.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place damsons in a saucepan with 1 1/2 cups water and bring to a boil.
- Simmer for 10 minutes until the fruit is soft.
- Run the mixture through a sieve to extract the juice.
- Add water to the juice to make 5 1/2 cups of liquid.
- Pour the juice into an 8-quart pot, add margarine and pectin, and bring to a full, rolling boil while stirring constantly.
- Quickly add the sugar and return to a full, rolling boil.
- Boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Pour hot jelly into sterilized jars, seal, and let cool.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a few cloves during cooking. If damsons are unavailable, you can substitute with other tart fruits like plums or cherries. When extracting juice, ensure the fruit is fully softened for maximum yield. For a clearer jelly, let the juice strain overnight instead of using a sieve.
Serving Suggestions
Damson jelly is perfect for spreading on toast or scones at breakfast. It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, adding a sweet-tart contrast, or can be used as a glaze for dishes like Grilled Honey Soy Chicken. For a delightful dessert, serve it alongside cream cheese on crackers or as a topping for vanilla ice cream.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of damson jelly in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. If you want to use it later, consider freezing the jelly in airtight containers. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat until it reaches spreading consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Damson Jelly contains roughly 501 calories, with 1g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 51g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (23% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen damsons for this recipe?
Yes, frozen damsons can be used for making jelly. Just thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before cooking. They may not yield as much juice as fresh fruit, so adjust the water accordingly.
How can I tell if my jelly is set?
To test if your jelly has set properly, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape and the surface wrinkles, it's ready. If not, continue boiling for a few more minutes.
What can I do with leftover damson jelly?
Leftover damson jelly is versatile! Use it as a filling for pastries, mix it into yogurt, or drizzle over pancakes. It also makes a great addition to sauces and marinades, enhancing dishes like Cuban Green Beans or as an accompaniment to meats.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).