Apricot and Pineapple Jam

Combining the flavors of apricot and pineapple in a jam creates a deliciously sweet and tropical spread.

Ingredients:

• 2 cups fresh apricots, pitted and chopped
• 1 cup crushed pineapple (fresh or canned)
• 3 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Fruits:

   • Wash, pit, and chop the fresh apricots.

2. Crush Pineapple:

   • If using canned pineapple, drain the juice and crush the pineapple. If using fresh pineapple, peel and core it before crushing.

3. Combine Apricots and Pineapple:

   • In a large saucepan, combine the chopped apricots, crushed pineapple, and granulated sugar. Mix well.

4. Add Lemon Juice:

   • Stir in the lemon juice. Lemon juice helps enhance the natural flavors of the fruits and adds pectin for jam setting.

5. Cook:

   • Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar.

6. Simmer:

   • Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the mixture simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Test for Setting Point:

   • After about 20-30 minutes of simmering, test the jam's setting point. Place a small amount on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles and holds its shape when touched, it's ready.

8. Add Lemon Zest (Optional):

   • If desired, stir in lemon zest for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

9. Remove from Heat:

   • Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, remove it from heat.

10. Cool and Store:

    • Allow the jam to cool for a few minutes.

    • Ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Clean the rims of the jars with a damp cloth.

11. Seal Jars:

    • Place sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the metal bands until they are fingertip-tight.

12. Water Bath (Optional):

    • For added preservation, you can process the sealed jars in a boiling water bath for about 5-10 minutes.

13. Cool Completely:

    • Allow the jars to cool completely on a clean, dry towel.

14. Store:

    • Once cooled, store the Apricot and Pineapple Jam in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips:

• For a smoother jam, puree some or all of the jam after cooking.
• You can add spices like cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom to the jam for additional flavor.
• Apricot jam can vary in consistency depending on the ripeness of the fruit. If your jam seems too thin after processing, you can reheat it in a pot and cook for a few more minutes until it reaches the desired thickness.

Enjoy this delightful jam on toast, muffins, or as a sweet addition to your favorite recipes! Adjust the sugar quantity based on your preference for sweetness.