SWEET POTATO JAM

Steps:

• Remove 4 strips lemon zest from lemon-if you don't have a zester, you can use a vegetable peeler.
• Tie lemon zest and cloves in a small piece of cheesecloth.
• Squeeze the juice from the lemon into a large saucepan.
• Remove any lemon seeds.
• Add 4 cups water to saucepan.
• Add sweet potatoes to lemon water in saucepan.
• Add sugar, cheessecloth and contents, cinnamon stick, vanilla bean, and nutmeg.
• Bring mixture to a boil.
• Reduce heat and simmer until thick and jam like, about 30 minutes.
• Using a spoon, skim off any foam that may rise to the surface as the jam cooks.
• Remove from heat.
• The potatoes should be soft enough to fall apart on their own, but if they don't, mash them with the back of a wooden spoon.
• Remove and discard cheesecloth and contents.
• You may leave the vanilla bean and cinnamon stick in the jam if you prefer, if not-remove them.
• Ladle jam into hot, clean jars---filling to 1/4 to 1/8 inch from the top.
• Wipe rim of jar clean.
• Place canning lids that have been preheated in hot water on jars and tighten rings as tight as possible.
• Process in water bath canner for 10 minutes. If you prefer not to process it, store in refrigerator and use within 10 to 14 days.
• ~~IMPORTANT: PLEASE NOTE~~This jam is rather perishable, so it is best to store even the sealed jars in the refrigerator. Once opened, the jam should be served within 4 to 5 days.~~.