This Ginger Pear jam combines the gentle sweetness of ripe pears with the bright zing of fresh ginger for a spread that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Perfect on toast, scones, or swirled into yogurt, it also makes an elegant appetizer when spooned over goat cheese and served with crackers or fruit. Try brushing it onto turkey burgers or roasted meats during the last minutes of cooking for a sweet-savory glaze.
INGREDIENTS:
4 cups pears (about 8 or 9 pears), peeled, cored and chopped into 1 inch pieces
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon lemon zest
1/3 cup fresh ginger root, peeled and finely minced*
1 package powdered pectin (like Sure Jell)
7 cups sugar
METHOD:
In a large stockpot, combine pears with ¼ cup water. Cook over low heat until pears just begin to soften, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat and mash with a potato masher or wooden spoon until chunky.
Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and ginger. Return pot to medium-high heat and bring mixture to a boil.
Stir in pectin until dissolved. Gradually add sugar, stirring constantly. Bring mixture back to a full rolling boil and cook, stirring, until jam thickens. Test by dipping a spoon—jam should sheet off the back rather than drip.
Ladle hot jam into sterilized half-pint jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe rims clean, top with lids, and secure rings. Process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
Remove jars and let stand undisturbed for 24 hours. Check seals, clean jars, label, and store in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
YIELD: About 7 half-pint jars
*1/4 cup crystallized minced ginger may be substituted
