Homemade Watermelon Jam
Ingredients (Makes \~2½ cups jam):
- 4 cups seedless watermelon, cubed
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
- 1 tbsp powdered fruit pectin (or 1½ tbsp for firmer set)
- ¾ cup granulated sugar
- Optional: ½ tsp vanilla extract or 1–2 sprigs fresh mint for infusion
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👩🍳 Directions:
1. Prepare watermelon: Blend watermelon cubes until smooth. Strain through a fine mesh sieve or cheesecloth to remove pulp (optional for smoother jam). You’ll need about 2½ cups juice/puree.
2. Simmer base: In a medium saucepan, combine watermelon puree and lemon juice. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Add pectin: Whisk in pectin until fully dissolved. Simmer 2–3 minutes.
4. Sweeten & thicken: Stir in sugar. Increase heat slightly and simmer 15–20 minutes, stirring often, until mixture thickens slightly and coats a spoon. (It will thicken more as it cools.)
5. Optional flavoring: Add vanilla or steep mint sprigs during the last few minutes, then remove before cooling.
6. Cool & store: Let cool, then pour into sterilized glass jars. Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage.