Best Apricot Lemon Jam Recipes

facebook share image   twitter share image   pinterest share image   E-Mail share image

APRICOT - LEMON JAM



Apricot - Lemon Jam image

Very tangy, not too sweet! Heaven must taste like this. Got this from the NPR website, with a story about going to pick the apricots at the orchard every summer. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=12195825 Note: I pack the apricot halves firmly into the measuring cup so they are bursting full when I measure them. If you don't pack them in as firmly, you might want to use a few more apricots. Also, a note about the serving size: this assumes you are using a tablespoon or so as a serving to spread on a piece of bread. In my experience, this recipe makes just less than a pint of jam.

Provided by Susiecat too

Categories     Lemon

Time 1h15m

Yield 1 pint, 32 serving(s)

Number Of Ingredients 3

4 cups apricots, halved and pitted
1 cup sugar
1 lemon, juice and zest of

Steps:

  • Don't worry about the skin, which disappears in the course of cooking.
  • Bring to a boil, lower heat, and cook until the mixture turns a bit darker and looks like jam when you let it dribble off a spoon (about 45 to 60 minutes.).
  • Stir it frequently enough that it doesn't stick to the bottom of the pot.
  • You can skim off the lighter colored stuff that rises to the top if you want, otherwise it seems to just disappear after a while.
  • Wash and can according to canner instructions.
  • Or, keeps well in refrigerator only, about 2-3 months, or in freezer, up to 12 months.

APRICOT LEMON VERBENA JAM



Apricot Lemon Verbena Jam image

If you have a lemon verbena growing in your garden or on your porch, try this deliciously lemon-flavored apricot jam.

Provided by gartenfee

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes     Canning and Preserving Recipes     Jams and Jellies Recipes

Time 12h35m

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 4

3 ½ pounds very ripe fresh apricots, pitted and halved
4 ½ cups white sugar
1 cup fresh lemon verbena leaves, washed and patted dry
1 (1.75 ounce) package fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell® Pectin Light for less or no sugar)

Steps:

  • Finely chop apricots.
  • Combine sugar and lemon verbena leaves in the bowl of a food processor; pulse until the leaves are fully incorporated in the sugar (the sugar will become light green).
  • Combine sugar-lemon verbena mixture and apricots in a large bowl. Cover and marinate in the fridge for 4 hours.
  • Inspect 4 jars for cracks and rings for rust, discarding any defective ones. Immerse in simmering water until jam is ready. Wash new, unused lids and rings in warm soapy water.
  • Transfer apricot-sugar mixture to a large pot and stir in pectin. Slowly bring to a full rolling boil that does not stop bubbling when stirred. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
  • Ladle apricot jam into the prepared jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the insides of the jars to remove any air bubbles. Wipe rims with a moist paper towel to remove any spills. Top with lids and tightly screw on rings.
  • Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower jars 2 inches apart into the boiling water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover, and process for 10 minutes.
  • Remove the jars from the stockpot and place onto a cloth-covered or wood surface, several inches apart. Let rest for 24 hours without moving the jars. Gently press the center of each lid with a finger to ensure the lid does not move up or down. Remove the rings for storage and store in a cool, dark area.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 1067.5 calories, Carbohydrate 269.9 g, Fat 1.7 g, Fiber 7.9 g, Protein 6 g, SaturatedFat 0.1 g, Sodium 5.1 mg, Sugar 261.1 g

APRICOT JAM WITH LEMON BALM



Apricot Jam with Lemon Balm image

Lemon balm leaves add a subtle lemon flavor to jam, it's not quite as pungent as lemon verbena.

Provided by sophie

Categories     Side Dish     Sauces and Condiments Recipes     Canning and Preserving Recipes     Jams and Jellies Recipes

Time P1DT8h30m

Yield 128

Number Of Ingredients 5

3 ½ pounds fresh apricots, pitted and finely chopped
7 cups white sugar
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
1 (1.75 ounce) package fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell Premium Fruit Pectin®)
½ cup finely chopped fresh lemon balm

Steps:

  • Measure apricots after preparation; you should have 5 cups prepared fruit.
  • Combine apricots, sugar, and lemon juice in a large plastic or glass bowl; mix well. Cover and refrigerate 8 hours to overnight.
  • Inspect 7 to 9 half-pint jars for cracks and rings for rust, discarding any defective ones. Immerse in simmering water until jam is ready. Wash new, unused lids and rings in warm soapy water.
  • Transfer apricot mixture and all of the accumulated juice to a large saucepan. Stir in pectin and slowly bring to a full rolling boil that does not stop bubbling when stirred. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Skim off any foam with a ladle or a large spoon.
  • Remove from heat and stir in lemon balm leaves.
  • Ladle apricot jam immediately into the prepared jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a clean knife or thin spatula around the insides of the jars to remove any air bubbles. Wipe rims with a moist paper towel to remove any spills. Top with lids and tightly screw on rings.
  • Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower jars 2 inches apart into the boiling water using a holder. Pour in more boiling water to cover jars by at least 1 inch. Bring to a rolling boil, cover, and process for 10 minutes.
  • Remove the jars from the stockpot and place onto a cloth-covered or wood surface, several inches apart. Let rest for 24 hours without moving the jars. Gently press the center of each lid with a finger to ensure the lid does not move up or down. Remove the rings for storage and store in a cool, dark area.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 48.7 calories, Carbohydrate 12.4 g, Fat 0.1 g, Fiber 0.2 g, Protein 0.2 g, Sodium 0.1 mg, Sugar 12.1 g

Apricot lemon jam is a delicious and versatile recipe that is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or sandwiches, or using as a filling for pastries and cakes. The combination of tangy lemons and sweet apricots makes for a bright and flavorful jam that is easy to make at home. In this article, we will explore what apricot lemon jam is, how it is made, and some tips for using and storing it.

What is Apricot Lemon Jam?

Apricot lemon jam is a type of preserve that is made by cooking together ripe apricots, sugar, lemon juice, and sometimes lemon zest. The mixture is simmered until the fruit is soft and the sugar has dissolved, creating a thick and luscious spread that can be canned or refrigerated for later use.
Ingredients:
  • 4 cups chopped apricots (about 2 lbs)
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/4 cup lemon juice
  • 1 tbsp lemon zest (optional)
Directions:
  1. Prepare the apricots by removing the pits and chopping them into small pieces.
  2. In a large pot, combine the chopped apricots, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest (if using).
  3. Stir the mixture over low heat until the sugar has dissolved.
  4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
  5. Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture for 20-30 minutes, or until the fruit has broken down and the mixture has thickened.
  6. Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool for a few minutes.
  7. Transfer the jam to clean canning jars or storage containers, and let it cool to room temperature before storing.

Using Apricot Lemon Jam

Apricot lemon jam is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of ways:
As a Spread
One of the simplest ways to enjoy apricot lemon jam is as a spread for toast, bagels, or biscuits. The bright, fruity flavor pairs well with butter or cream cheese, and the tangy lemon adds a fresh, zesty note.
In Baked Goods
Apricot lemon jam can also be used as a filling for pastries, cakes, and cookies. It pairs well with shortbread, scones, and croissants, and can be used to sweeten and flavor muffins, cupcakes, and breads.
In Savory Dishes
For a twist on traditional condiments, try using apricot lemon jam as a glaze for grilled or roasted meats. It pairs well with chicken, pork, and lamb, and can be combined with other flavors like garlic, ginger, or mustard for added complexity.

Storing and Preserving Apricot Lemon Jam

Apricot lemon jam can be stored in airtight jars or containers in the refrigerator for up to one month. To extend its shelf life, the jam can be canned using a water bath canning method. This will preserve the jam for up to a year or longer, depending on the processing method and storage conditions.
Water Bath Canning Method
To can apricot lemon jam using the water bath method, follow these steps:
  1. Prepare the canning jars and lids by sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
  2. Fill a large pot with enough water to submerge the filled jars, and bring the water to a boil.
  3. Once the jam is ready, ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
  4. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean towel, and place the lids on top, tightening the bands until they are just snug.
  5. Place the filled jars in the boiling water, making sure they are fully submerged and have at least 1 inch of water covering the tops of the jars.
  6. Boil the jars for 10-15 minutes, depending on your altitude.
  7. Using tongs or a jar lifter, carefully remove the jars from the water and place them on a clean towel to cool.
  8. Check that the lids have sealed by pressing down on the center of each lid. If it does not bounce back, the seal is good.
  9. Label and store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.

Conclusion

Apricot lemon jam is a delicious and versatile recipe that can be easily made at home. It can be enjoyed as a spread, used as a filling for baked goods, or incorporated into savory dishes. By following the water bath canning method, the jam can be stored for extended periods of time, making it a perfect gift or pantry staple.
Jams are among the easiest preservation methods for fruits, and they can last for a long time if stored properly. Apricot lemon jam is a classic recipe that combines the tanginess of lemon with the sweetness of apricots, creating a mouthwatering flavor that can be enjoyed all year round. Here are some valuable tips to consider when making a batch of apricot lemon jam.

Choose High-Quality Ingredients

The quality of the ingredients used in the jam-making process will ultimately determine the overall flavor and texture of the final product. It's crucial to choose fresh and ripe apricots and lemons to ensure a fragrant and flavorful jam. Additionally, it's recommended to use organic ingredients to avoid any chemicals or pesticides that may alter the quality of the jam.

Proper Preparation is Key

Before starting the cooking process, it's essential to prepare all the ingredients and equipment beforehand. This ensures that everything is within reach when needed, and it eliminates the risk of any accidents, such as burning the jam or spilling sugar. To prepare, wash and chop the apricots, remove any pits or seeds, and squeeze the lemons. Measure out the sugar and any additional ingredients, such as spices or pectin, and sterilize the jars and lids.

Use the Right Ratio of Ingredients

The ratio of apricots to sugar is a crucial factor when making apricot lemon jam. The right balance will result in a jam that's neither too sweet nor too tart, and it will have a firm yet spreadable texture. The general rule is to use equal parts of chopped fruit and sugar, but this can vary depending on personal preference and the tartness of the fruit. Some recipes suggest adding a bit of lemon juice to enhance the tartness and aid in gelling.

Monitor the Cooking Process

Cooking jam is a delicate balance between heat, time, and stirring. It's essential to keep a close eye on the pan to ensure that the jam doesn't burn or stick to the bottom. Use medium heat to bring the fruit and sugar to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and continue stirring regularly. This allows the fruit to break down slowly and release pectin, which is a natural thickening agent. Cook the jam until it reaches the desired consistency, typically between 20-30 minutes.

Add Flavor Enhancers if Desired

While apricot lemon jam is delicious on its own, you can also add some flavor enhancers to create a more unique taste. Spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or vanilla can add warmth and depth, while herbs like rosemary or thyme can provide a subtle aroma. If you prefer a chunkier jam, consider adding chopped nuts, such as almonds or walnuts, or dried fruits like cranberries.

Test for Set

The set point of jam is critical in achieving the correct texture. An effective way to test for set is to use the "wrinkle" test. This involves placing a small amount of jam onto a cold plate and allowing it to cool for a minute. Then, push the jam with your finger, and if it wrinkles and holds its shape, it's reached the set point. If it's still runny, continue cooking and testing every few minutes until the set point is reached.

Fill and Seal Jars Correctly

Once the jam has reached the set point, remove it from the heat, and let it sit for a few minutes. Using a funnel, ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving a quarter-inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims with a damp cloth to remove any residue and secure the lids tightly. To ensure a proper seal, process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes, then remove and let cool completely. Store the jars in a cool, dark place, and consume within six months to a year.

Conclusion

Making apricot lemon jam can be a fun and rewarding experience, especially when following these valuable tips. With the right ingredients, preparation, and cooking technique, you can create a jam that's bursting with flavor and has the perfect texture. Experiment with different spices and flavorings to create a unique taste that suits your preferences, and enjoy your homemade jam spread on toast, mixed with yogurt, or served with cheese. Happy jam-making!

Related Topics