Ever wake up wondering how to make plum jam? It’s not something everyone knows how to make, but surely everyone loves to eat it. However, you don’t need to worry, as this is not a hard process and will result in a tasty treat. 
If you are ready to get started, these are all the things you need to know about making your plum jam:
Tip #1: When you prepare it at home, you save yourself from unwanted additives
As you may already know, commercial jams and jellies are full of sugar and other additives. While they may taste delicious, they are also packed with ingredients you may not want for you. Instead, when you prepare your plum jam at home, you get to control what goes into it and how much.
Tip #2: Clean and cut your fruit first
Before you start cooking anything, the best way to make sure you end up with a tasty product is to check your fruit. If you notice any blemishes, bruises, or signs of spoilage make sure to remove these.
After your fruit is clean, cut it in half, and remove the pit, then cutting it in half again. You can choose the size of the fruit that you like, but quarters are usually a good, manageable size.
Tip #3: Bring the fruit mix to a boil
After your fruit is cut, make sure to add it along with some water to the saucepan. Simmer the mix gently for a few minutes, until the fruit is soft, making sure it doesn’t burn.
Once soft, you can add the lemon juice and sugar until it all dissolves. Bring everything to a rolling boil, making sure things don’t stick to the bottom and begin to burn.
Tip #4: Keep an eye out for the setting point
If you have made jam before, then you know all about the setting point, but if you have never made jam, then this can be a little tricky.
First, you can try to use a thermometer to ensure that your jam is ready. To do this, place the thermometer to the side of your pan and if it reads about 215-220 degrees F, then your jam is ready.
Another old method to use is called a “wrinkle test”, in which you place a bit of jam onto a saucer or a spoon and after about a minute, you push with your finger. If the jam wrinkles, it will set.
You can use saucers or spoons that have been chilled in the fridge for a better result. When the jam is still too runny, return it to the heat and wait another 5 minutes.
Tip #5: This jam is high in pectin
Pectin is key in making jams and jellies, but did you know that it is naturally occurring in plums? This means that your jam will be firm once cool and can keep its shape. When you add the acid from the lemon juice and cook the fruit at a high temperature, you are forming a gel.
It is normal, though, for your jam to be either too thin or too thick in the beginning. While this is not ideal, you can still enjoy your jam. If it is too thick, you can use it as a topping for cheese or on a spread. If it is too thin, use it for flavoring things like yogurt, ice cream, or dips.
Tip #6: Add some spices to give your jam a new flavor
Once you make this plum jam, you will want to make it over and over again. Still, no one likes to have the same flavors repeatedly, so why not try adding new spices? Plums pair well with warm flavors, like cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice.
You can also add a little more acid, like apple cider vinegar. Some people even like to make things more interesting by using spicy flavors, like red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper.
Tip #7: Seal the jars and store them appropriately
When your jam is set and ready, ladle it into your pre-sterilized jars. You can process your jars for at least 10 minutes to be safe, but make sure to leave enough headspace for the fruit to expand properly.
Allow your jars to cool down for at least 12 hours, but check that the seal is tight and there are no bubbles or spills. When your jars are cool, store them in the refrigerator, where they can keep for months at a time.
Try this plum jam year-round for a sweet treat!
Don’t let your plums go to waste anymore; with this jam, you can surprise your family and guests now that you know exactly how to make plum jam at home. Consider adding any flavors you like and using it as a topping, dessert, or snack!
