Rhubarb & vanilla jam
By Sarah Cook
Homemade jam doesn't have to be just a summer treat with this sweet-sharp seasonal recipe
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Prep:10 mins
Cook:30 mins
Plus cooling time - Easy
Nutrition per serving
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kcal 44
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fat 0g
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saturates 0g
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carbs 12g
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sugars 12g
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fibre 0g
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protein 0g
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salt 0g
Ingredients
- 1kg rhubarb, weighed after trimming, cut into 3cm chunks
- 1kg jam sugar (or 1kg caster sugar plus 1 x 8g sachet pectin - we used Tate & Lyle)
- 2 vanilla pods, halved lengthways
- juice 1 lemon
Tip
Sterilising jarsWash your jars in hot, soapy water, then leave in a low oven to dry completely. Keep them warm. Alternatively, run the jars and lids through a hot dishwasher cycle, then let them dry.
Method
Put a small plate in the freezer. Put the rhubarb into a preserving pan or your largest saucepan with the sugar and halved vanilla pods. Heat gently, stirring, until all the sugar has dissolved, then squeeze in the lemon juice and increase the heat.
Boil for about 10 mins, skimming off the scum as you go (the fruit should be soft). Test for setting point by spooning a little onto your chilled plate. After 1-2 mins, push your finger through the jam – if the surface wrinkles it is ready, if not, keep cooking for 2-min intervals, testing in between. (Or if you have a sugar thermometer it should reach 105C)
Once the jam is ready, let it cool for about 15 mins before ladling into warm sterilised jars and sealing. Will keep for 6 months in a cool, dark place.
