Delia Smith's Plum Jam: A Sweet and Tangy Homemade Delight

Delia Smith's plum jam recipe is a delightful homemade treat, blending the rich flavors of ripe plums with the perfect amount of sweetness. This recipe is a wonderful way to preserve the tangy and sweet flavors of plums, making it an ideal addition to your breakfast table or as a thoughtful homemade gift. Let's dive into the cultural context, ingredients, preparation, and other aspects of this classic recipe.

Cultural or Historical Context

Delia Smith, a renowned British cook and television presenter, has been an influential figure in British cuisine. Her recipes are known for their simplicity and traditional British flavors. Plum jam, a staple in British households, has a rich history dating back centuries, where preserving fruits was a necessity. This recipe is a modern take on this age-old tradition, embodying the essence of British culinary heritage.

Ingredients List

For a yield of approximately 8-10 jars, you will need:

• 2 kilograms of ripe plums
• 1.5 kilograms of granulated sugar (regular sugar works fine as plums have natural pectin)
• 1.5 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice
• A generous knob of butter (about 40g)
• 150 ml of cold water

Preparation Instructions

1. Prepare the Plums: Wash the plums, split them in half, and remove the stones. If the plums are large, cut them into quarters.
2. Cook the Plums: In a large, heavy-based pan, combine the plums and cold water. Bring to a boil, then simmer gently until the fruit is soft (15-20 minutes).
3. Add Sugar and Lemon Juice: Add the sugar and lemon juice to the softened plums. Stir over low heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Boil to Setting Point: Increase heat, bringing the mixture to a rolling boil for about 10 minutes. Test for readiness by seeing if it wrinkles on a cold plate.
5. Add Butter: Stir in the knob of butter to dissolve any scum.
6. Jar the Jam: Cool the jam slightly, then ladle into sterilized jars. Seal the jars while hot.

Storage and Reheating

• In the fridge: Store the jam in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• In the freezer: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.

There’s generally no need to heat plum jam as it’s enjoyed at room temperature.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 74
• Potassium: 106 mg
• Carbohydrates: 19g
• Sugar: 17g
• Calcium: 4 mg
• Iron: 0.1mg

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I use frozen plums?
   Yes, just thaw them completely first.
2. How long does homemade plum jam last?
   Up to a year in a cool, dark place when sealed; once opened, keep in the fridge and use within a month.
3. Why is my jam too runny/thick?
   It could be due to under/overcooking or the sugar ratio. Adjust cooking time or sugar in your next batch.
4. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
   Yes, but it may affect preservation and texture.
5. Is this recipe suitable for diabetics?
   It's high in sugar, so it's not ideal for diabetics. Consider diabetic-friendly alternatives.

Conclusion

Delia Smith's plum jam is a perfect example of a classic British recipe, showcasing the simplicity and deliciousness of home cooking. Whether enjoyed on toast, in desserts, or as a sweet gift, this jam is a testament to the joy of homemade preserves. Embrace the art of jam-making with this delightful recipe and savor the taste of homemade goodness.