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Italian Lemon Jam Recipe

4.7 from 115 reviews

This classic Italian Lemon Jam combines the bright zest and tangy juice of fresh lemons with sugar and a touch of vanilla for a vibrant, flavorful preserve. Perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on desserts, or adding a citrusy twist to your favorite dishes, this recipe offers a simple yet delightful way to capture the essence of lemons in a sweet, thick jam.

Ingredients

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Ingredients

  • 4 large lemons
  • 2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the lemons: Wash and dry the lemons thoroughly. Zest the lemons using a microplane or fine grater, then juice them, carefully discarding any seeds that may fall into the juice.
  2. Combine ingredients: In a pot, mix the lemon juice, lemon zest, granulated sugar, and water. Stir well until the sugar is completely dissolved.
  3. Cook the jam: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for about 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
  4. Check for readiness: To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. If the jam gels and wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it is done. If not, continue simmering and test again after a few minutes.
  5. Cool and store: Remove the pot from heat and allow the jam to cool slightly. Pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal them tightly, and let the jars cool completely at room temperature before storing.

Notes

  • Choose Fresh Lemons: Fresh, organic lemons yield the best and brightest flavor for jam.
  • Sterilize Jars: Always sterilize your storage jars by boiling or oven sterilization to prevent spoilage and extend shelf life.
  • Add Flavor: For an interesting variation, add fresh herbs such as thyme or basil during cooking to infuse subtle herbal notes.
  • Adjust Sweetness: You can reduce or increase the sugar according to your personal taste preferences.
  • Check Thickness: The jam will continue to thicken as it cools, so avoid overcooking.

Keywords: Italian lemon jam, lemon preserve, homemade jam, citrus jam, lemon zest jam, easy jam recipe