ITALIAN LEMON JAM
A bright and zesty Italian-style lemon jam with a perfect balance of sweet and tart, great for spreading or baking.
- Author: Zerina
- Prep Time: 15 minutes + overnight soaking
- Cook Time: 1.5 hours
- Total Time: About 2 hours (excluding soaking time)
- Yield: 4-5 jars (8 oz each)
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Boiling and simmering
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
-
- Fresh lemons (about 6 medium)
- Granulated sugar
- Water
- Optional: a small pinch of salt or a vanilla bean for added depth
-
- Prepare the lemons — Wash lemons thoroughly. Using a vegetable peeler or sharp knife, remove the zest in thin strips, avoiding the white pith as much as possible. Set zest aside.
- Segment the lemons — Peel lemons to remove the white pith. Slice or chop the lemon flesh into small pieces, removing seeds as you go.
- Combine ingredients — In a large pot, combine lemon zest, chopped lemon flesh, sugar, and water. Stir well. Let sit for at least an hour or overnight to macerate and allow flavors to meld.
- Cook the jam — Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat and simmer gently for about 45-60 minutes or until the mixture thickens and the lemon pieces become translucent. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Test for doneness — Place a small spoonful on a chilled plate; if it gels and wrinkles when pushed, the jam is ready.
- Jar the jam — Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a little headspace. Seal tightly and allow to cool. Refrigerate after opening.
Notes
- Use organic lemons to avoid pesticide residues in the peel.
- Store in the refrigerator after opening.
- Great on toast, in desserts, or as a glaze.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0.2g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: lemon jam, Italian preserves, citrus jam, homemade jam