Sunset Jam
Sunset Jam offers a vibrant blend of pears, pineapple, and cherries, with a sweet, tangy flavor profile perfect for spreading on toast or serving with cheeses.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a preserving pot, combine pears, pineapple, cherries, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Mix well and bring to boiling point, stirring constantly, for 7 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Stir in fruit pectin.
- Stir and skim for 5 minutes.
- Put the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best texture, ensure your pears are firm and not overly ripe. If you prefer a lower sugar option, you can reduce the sugar to 5 cups and add 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice for balance. Consider using diced peaches or apples as a substitute for pears if you're looking for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
Spread Sunset Jam on toast or scones for breakfast, or use it as a unique filling for Banana Turnovers. It also makes a delightful topping for yogurt or ice cream, adding a sweet contrast. Pair it with a cheese platter for a perfect balance of flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store the Sunset Jam in sterilized jars, sealing them tightly. Keep the jam in a cool, dark place, and it will last for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate and use within three weeks. If you want to enjoy it warm, simply spoon out a portion and gently heat it in the microwave.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sunset Jam contains roughly 632 calories, with 3g protein, 162g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (42% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (36% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium and potassium. It also contributes 10g 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 frozen fruit for this jam?
Yes, you can use frozen firm pears and crushed pineapple. Just ensure they are completely thawed and drained before using to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the jam's consistency.
What is the purpose of the fruit pectin?
Fruit pectin is essential for helping the jam set properly. It thickens the mixture, ensuring a spreadable consistency. If you're using low-sugar recipes, make sure to add the correct amount of pectin as specified on the package.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?
To reduce sweetness, start with less sugar and gradually add to taste while cooking. You can also experiment with adding a small amount of unsweetened fruit juice or zest to enhance flavor without adding sugar.
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).