French Peach Jam Recipe

My mum’s French Peach Jam Recipe captures the essence of summer in every jar. With fresh, juicy peaches and the perfect balance of sweetness, this jam is a delightful addition to your breakfast table or as a special condiment for various treats. Made without artificial pectin, it offers a natural set that highlights the beautiful flavor of peaches. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or using it in desserts, this homemade jam is sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Preparation: This recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients and effort.
• Natural Ingredients: Enjoy peace of mind with all-natural components and no preservatives.
• Versatile Uses: Perfect for breakfast spreads, desserts, or even as a gift.
• Rich Flavor: The combination of peaches and lemon creates a perfectly balanced taste.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your French peach jam, gather the necessary tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large jam pan
• Hand blender
• Measuring cups
• Clean jam jars with lids
• Ice-cold plate for testing

Importance of Each Tool

• Large jam pan: Provides ample space for cooking the peaches while allowing for proper stirring.
• Hand blender: Helps achieve your desired consistency quickly and efficiently.
• Ice-cold plate: Essential for testing if your jam has set properly.

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Ingredients

To create this delicious French Peach Jam, you’ll need the following ingredients:

For the Jam

• 2.2 Pounds Peach (fresh or frozen)
• 3⅓ Cups Sugar
• 1 Lemon (juice it and keep lemon halves)

How to Make French Peach Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Peaches

1. Rinse peaches thoroughly under cool water and pat dry.
2. Cut each peach in half and remove the pit.
3. Cut further into quarters and peel off the skin.

Step 2: Measure Ingredients

1. Weigh your peeled peaches to ensure you have the correct amount for the recipe.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Place the peeled peaches into a large jam pan.
2. Add sugar and lemon juice along with the squeezed lemon halves.

Step 4: Cook the Mixture

1. Stir ingredients together until well mixed.
2. Bring to a rolling boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to simmer for 40–50 minutes until fruits look glossy and translucent.

Step 5: Blend for Consistency

1. Remove the lemon halves from the mixture.
2. Use a hand blender to blend your jam until you reach your desired texture.

Step 6: Test for Setting Point

1. Continue simmering until setting point is reached.
2. Test by placing hot jam on an ice-cold plate; if it runs, cook further and retest until set.

Step 7: Prepare Jars for Storing

1. Before filling jars with hot jam, add a drop of alcohol-free vanilla extract into each lid to prevent mold growth.
2. Fill clean jam jars with hot peach jam, seal tightly with lids, and turn them upside down.

Step 8: Store Your Jam

1. Leave jars upside down for a few hours to ensure vacuum sealing.
2. Store in a dry, cool place away from direct sunlight; refrigerate if in a humid climate.

Now you’re ready to enjoy this delightful French Peach Jam!

How to Serve French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam is a delightful addition to various meals and snacks. Its sweet, fruity flavor pairs well with many dishes, making it a versatile condiment.

On Toast

• Spread a generous layer of peach jam on toasted bread for a simple yet delicious breakfast or snack.

With Cheese

• Pair the jam with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a sweet and savory appetizer that impresses guests.

As a Dessert Topping

• Drizzle peach jam over vanilla ice cream or yogurt for a refreshing dessert option that adds a burst of flavor.

In Breakfast Bowls

• Stir peach jam into oatmeal or smoothie bowls to enhance sweetness and add fruitiness, perfect for starting your day right.

In Baking

• Use peach jam as a filling for pastries or tarts, adding moisture and sweetness to your baked goods.

On Pancakes or Waffles

• Serve warm pancakes or waffles topped with peach jam instead of syrup for a fruity twist on breakfast classics.

How to Perfect French Peach Jam Recipe

To achieve the best results with your French peach jam, consider these helpful tips:

• Choose ripe peaches: Using ripe peaches ensures the best flavor and natural sweetness in your jam.

• Measure ingredients accurately: Precise measurements help in achieving the perfect consistency and taste.

• Test for doneness: Always test the jam’s set by dropping it on an ice-cold plate; this will ensure it’s not too runny.

• Use clean jars: Sterilizing jars before filling them prevents contamination and extends shelf life.

• Store properly: Keep your jars in a cool, dry place away from sunlight for optimal preservation.

• Adjust sweetness if needed: Feel free to tweak the sugar amount based on the sweetness of your peaches.

Best Side Dishes for French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam complements many side dishes beautifully. Here are some tasty options to consider:

1. Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The savory cheese pairs wonderfully with the sweet jam, creating a comforting meal.
2. Savory Scones: Enjoy freshly baked scones alongside peach jam for a delightful contrast of flavors.
3. Fruit Salad: Enhance your fruit salad by drizzling it with peach jam to tie all flavors together.
4. Crostini with Goat Cheese: Simple crostini topped with goat cheese and a dollop of peach jam make an elegant appetizer.
5. Pork Tenderloin: While avoiding pork products in our recipe, consider substituting chicken or turkey tenderloin glazed with peach jam for added flavor.
6. Baked Brie: Serve warm baked brie drizzled with peach jam as an indulgent treat at gatherings.
7. Vegetable Platter: Pair crunchy veggies like carrots and cucumbers with peach jam as a unique dip option.
8. Rice Pilaf: Stir some peach jam into rice pilaf for an unexpected sweet twist that enhances this side dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making French Peach Jam can be simple, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold ingredient measurements: Not weighing your peaches accurately can lead to inconsistent results. Always use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Bold not using fresh fruit: Using overripe or damaged peaches can affect the taste and texture of your jam. Ensure your peaches are fresh and in good condition.
• Bold forgetting the lemon juice: Skipping lemon juice may result in a jam that doesn’t set properly. Always include it for acidity and flavor balance.
• Bold ignoring simmering times: Cooking the jam for too little time can prevent it from thickening. Allow it to simmer until fruits are glossy and translucent.
• Bold improperly storing jars: If jars aren’t sealed correctly, your jam could spoil. Always ensure lids are tight and store jars upside down to create a vacuum seal.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in clean, airtight jars.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.

Freezing French Peach Jam Recipe

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or jars.
• Can be stored for up to one year.

Reheating French Peach Jam Recipe

• Oven: Place the jar in a preheated oven at low temperature until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring between each, to avoid hot spots.
• Stovetop: Gently heat on low, stirring continuously until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about our French Peach Jam Recipe.

Can I use frozen peaches?

Yes! Frozen peaches work well in this recipe. Just thaw them before use.

How long does it take for the jam to set?

It typically takes about 40-50 minutes of simmering. Check with the cold plate test for desired consistency.

What can I use instead of sugar?

You may substitute sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, but this might alter the texture slightly.

How do I know if my jam is spoiled?

If you notice any off smells, mold growth, or an unusual appearance, it’s best to discard the jam.

Final Thoughts

This French Peach Jam Recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to preserve summer flavors. Feel free to customize by adding spices or other fruits for unique variations. Enjoy sharing this delightful treat with friends and family!