Surinam Cherry Jam Food

SURINAM CHERRY AND CARAMBOLA JAM

Steps:

• Wash the carambolas, removing the ends and dark ridges. Chop coarsely; you should have about 3 cups.
• Sterilize the canning jars and lids by placing them in a large pot of simmering water. Remove the lids and bands once they are hot. Allow the jars to remain in the hot water until needed.
• In the bowl of a food processor, combine the carambolas and cherries or cranberries. Chop until the carambola is in 3/4-inch pieces.
• In a large saucepan over low heat, stir the carambola mixture until it sizzles, then add the sugar. Allow the sugar to liquefy, then bring to a boil. Simmer, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Add the pectin, and simmer for another 15 minutes.
• Pour the fruit mixture into hot, sterile jars. Cap with the bands and lids, and allow to cool.

EASY CHERRY JAM

Steps:

• Put two saucers in the freezer for testing the jam later on. Tip the cherries, sugar and lemon juice into a large, heavy-based saucepan and simmer uncovered over a medium-high heat for 35-50 mins, stirring frequently until thick and glossy.
• After 35 mins, spoon a little of the jam onto one of the chilled saucers. Leave for 1 min, press a fingertip into the jam. If it starts the wrinkle, it's ready. If it slides away, continue to boil the jam for 10 mins, then test again on the other saucer.
• Spoon the jam into sterilised jars and seal. Will keep for six months unopened (when stored in a dark, cool place), or opened in the fridge for three months.

BC CHERRY JAM

Steps:

• Place cherries, apple juice, lemon juice, and pectin into a large saucepan over medium heat; bring to a boil, and mix in the sugar. Cook the jam at a rolling boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. Remove from heat and skim off any foam.
• Sterilize the jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Pack the cherry jam into the hot, sterilized jars, filling the jars to within 1/4 inch of the top. Run a knife or a thin spatula around the insides of the jars after they have been filled to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the rims of the jars with a moist paper towel to remove any food residue. Top with lids, and screw on rings.
• Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then carefully lower the jars into the pot using a holder. Leave a 2 inch space between the jars. Pour in more boiling water if necessary until the water level is at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars. Bring the water to a full boil, cover the pot, and process for 15 minutes, or the time as recommended by your county Extension agent.
• Remove the jars from the stockpot and place onto a cloth-covered or wood surface, several inches apart, until cool. Once cool, press the top of each lid with a finger, ensuring that the seal is tight (lid does not move up or down at all). Store in a cool, dark area.