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cherry cardamom jam recipe

Cherry Cardamom Jam

This homemade jam combines juicy cherries with aromatic cardamom to create a sophisticated spread perfect for toast, scones, or an elegant cheese board. The simple process of macerating cherries with sugar and then simmering them with lemon juice and spices results in a deep, ruby-red jam that elevates any snack or meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 485
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Jam Ingredients
  • 2 cups cherries about 300g, pitted (fresh or thawed frozen)
  • 1/3 cup sugar about 65g, or to taste
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest optional, for brightness
  • 1-2 teaspoons chia seeds optional, for quicker setting

Equipment

  • Saucepan
  • Wooden spoon
  • Sterilized jars

Method
 

  1. In a saucepan, combine the cherries and sugar. Allow them to macerate for 10-15 minutes so that the sugar draws out the juices.
  2. Add the lemon juice and ground cardamom to the cherries. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer.
  3. Stir frequently for 20-30 minutes as the mixture thickens. If you prefer a rustic texture, lightly mash some of the cherries with your spoon; for a smoother jam, blend the mixture off the heat.
  4. After cooking, remove the pan from heat and taste the jam. At this stage, you can stir in the optional lemon zest and chia seeds if desired, and adjust sweetness as needed.
  5. Allow the jam to cool for about 15 minutes to thicken further, then transfer it to sterilized jars. Since this homemade jam contains no preservatives, store it in the refrigerator.

Notes

This cherry cardamom jam recipe is wonderfully adaptable to your taste. You can adjust the sweetness and spice levels based on the natural tartness of the cherries and your flavor preference. Optional ingredients like lemon zest and chia seeds not only enhance the brightness and texture of the jam but also allow for fun variations. Keep in mind that, without preservatives, the jam should be stored in the refrigerator and enjoyed within a couple of weeks.