Pineapple jam is a delicious and tangy spread made from ripe pineapples, sugar, and a bit of lemon juice. Its sweet, tropical flavor adds a burst of sunshine to your morning toast, sandwiches, or even as a topping for cakes and pastries. This easy-to-make recipe captures the natural sweetness of pineapples, making it a perfect addition to your pantry.
Quick Facts
| Course | Dessert/Spread |
|---|---|
| Cuisine | Tropical, Caribbean |
| Difficulty | Easy |
| Servings | 4-6 jars (depending on size) |
| Prep Time | 15 minutes |
| Cooking Time | 45 minutes |
| Calories | 100 calories per tablespoon |
Equipment Needed
Before you begin making pineapple jam, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:
- A large saucepan or stockpot
- A wooden spoon for stirring
- A potato masher or blender (optional, depending on desired texture)
- Jars with lids for storing
- A funnel (optional, for easy pouring into jars)
- A measuring cup
- A knife and cutting board
Ingredients
For this simple and delicious pineapple jam, you will need:
- 4 cups of fresh pineapple (peeled and chopped)
- 2 cups of sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon of pectin (optional for thicker jam)
- A pinch of salt (optional)
Instructions
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions:
- Prepare the Pineapple: Peel the fresh pineapples and chop them into small pieces. If you prefer a smoother jam, use a blender to puree the pineapple, or mash it with a potato masher for a chunkier texture.
- Cook the Pineapple: In a large saucepan, add the chopped or pureed pineapple, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together and bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer and Stir: Once the mixture starts boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30 to 40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the jam from sticking to the pan. You’ll notice it starting to thicken as it cooks.
- Check the Consistency: To check if the jam has reached the right consistency, place a spoonful on a cold plate and let it cool for a few minutes. Run your finger through it—if it wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s ready.
- Jar the Jam: Once the jam has thickened, remove it from the heat. Let it cool for a few minutes before transferring it into sterilized jars. Use a funnel to avoid spillage. Seal the jars tightly with lids.
- Store the Jam: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before storing them in the fridge. They should last up to two weeks, or you can process the jars for longer shelf life.
Essential Note:
To make the jam last longer, you can process the jars in a hot water bath. This will seal the jars and make the jam last for several months without refrigeration. Always ensure your jars are sterilized properly before filling them.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 tbsp) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 100 |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Protein | 0g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Saturated Fat | 0g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 0g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 0mg |
| Sodium | 0mg |
| Potassium | 55mg |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Sugar | 22g |
| Vitamin A | 0 IU |
| Vitamin C | 10mg |
| Calcium | 10mg |
| Iron | 0.1mg |
Recipe Notes
For a twist, you can add some crushed ginger or cinnamon for a unique flavor. Also, remember that using fresh, ripe pineapples will give you the best taste. If you prefer a sweeter jam, feel free to adjust the sugar level.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Use Fresh Pineapples: For the best flavor, always use fresh, ripe pineapples. The taste of your jam will depend heavily on the fruit’s quality.
- Experiment with Textures: If you want a smoother jam, blend the pineapple before cooking. If you prefer it chunky, mash it by hand with a potato masher.
- Pectin Tip: If you like your jam extra thick, add pectin. It will help the jam set more quickly, ensuring a firm texture.
- Test the Jam: Always do a quick test by placing a spoonful on a cold plate before putting the jam into jars. This ensures you get the perfect consistency.
Conclusion
Making pineapple jam at home is a fun and easy way to enjoy the sweet tropical flavor of pineapples in a spreadable form. Whether you’re slathering it on toast or using it as a filling for desserts, this pineapple jam recipe is sure to impress. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you’ll have homemade jam that’s fresh, flavorful, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy this delightful treat, and feel free to experiment with your own personal twists on the recipe!
