Ginger Pear Jam
Ginger Pear Jam offers a sweet and spicy preserve highlighting pear's natural flavor with hints of ginger and citrus, perfect for spreading on toast or gifting.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Chop the canned pears and combine with the juice, finely chopped candied ginger, juice and grated rind of lemons, sugar, and molasses in a heavy saucepan.
- Cook slowly for 10 minutes.
- Add pectin and boil rapidly for 5 minutes.
- Pack the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal immediately.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jam, puree the pears before cooking. If you don't have pectin, consider using extra sugar and cook longer to achieve the right consistency. You can substitute fresh ginger if candied isn't available; just adjust the quantity to taste. If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar slightly, but ensure you maintain enough sugar for preservation.
Serving Suggestions
This ginger pear jam pairs beautifully with breakfast items like toast, scones, or pancakes. It also complements savory dishes, making it a delightful spread for sandwiches or a glaze for meats. Consider serving it alongside cheeses for a charcuterie board or as a topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt, enhancing the flavors of Purple Cow Parfaits.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of jam in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within three weeks. To reheat, simply warm the jam in a saucepan over low heat until it reaches your desired temperature, perfect for spreading on toast or drizzling over pancakes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ginger Pear Jam contains roughly 264 calories, with 4g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (61% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and iron (27% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 8g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 fresh pears instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh pears, but you will need to peel, core, and chop them before cooking. Fresh pears may require additional cooking time to soften, and you should also add some juice or water to match the consistency of canned pears.
What if I don't have candied ginger?
If you don't have candied ginger, you can use fresh ginger grated finely. However, adjust the amount to taste since fresh ginger is more potent than candied. You can also try substituting with a small amount of ground ginger for a different flavor profile.
How can I tell when the jam is done cooking?
The jam is done when it thickens and holds its shape on a spoon. A good test is to place a spoonful on a cold plate and run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it's ready. Remember that it will thicken further as it cools.
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).