Introduction
Creating homemade jam can be a delightful experience, and this cherry jam recipe is both simple and delicious. Using fresh cherries, lemon juice, honey, and pectin, this recipe yields a sweet and tangy treat that you can enjoy on toast, in desserts, or as a topping for yogurt. With the help of an Instant Pot, the cooking process is efficient and straightforward, making it easy to produce a batch of jam in no time.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 lb. fresh cherries
Juice of 1/2 lemon
1/2 cup honey (up to one cup for sweeter flavor)
1 package pectin
Prep Time
Approximately 15 minutes
Cook Time
5 minutes
Total Time
About 30 minutes, including preparation and natural pressure release
Yield
Approximately 1 pint of jam
Instructions
1. Clean, pit, and roughly chop the cherries.
2. Set the Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add the honey and allow it to melt for about 2 minutes. Turn off the Instant Pot.
3. Add the chopped cherries, lemon juice, and pectin powder to the melted honey. Stir to combine all ingredients.
4. Secure the lid on the Instant Pot, close the valve, and set it to high pressure for 5 minutes.
5. After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally. If the lid cannot be opened after about 10 minutes, open the valve to release any remaining pressure.
6. Transfer the jam into sterilized glass jars and seal them properly. Place the jars upside down until they cool completely.
7. Store the cooled jam in the refrigerator.
Notes
The jam will thicken as it cools. Avoid adding more pectin than specified.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Clean the fresh cherries thoroughly. Remove the pits from the cherries and roughly chop them into smaller pieces to enhance the cooking process.
Step 2: Melt the Honey
Set your Instant Pot to sauté mode. Add 1/2 cup of honey (or up to 1 cup if you prefer a sweeter jam) to the pot. Allow the honey to melt for approximately 2 minutes. Once melted, turn off the Instant Pot.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the chopped cherries, the juice of 1/2 lemon, and the package of pectin to the melted honey in the Instant Pot. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are combined thoroughly.
Step 4: Pressure Cook
Secure the lid on the Instant Pot and close the valve. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for a duration of 5 minutes to cook the mixture.
Step 5: Release Pressure
Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally. If the lid cannot be opened after about 10 minutes, carefully open the valve to release any remaining pressure.
Step 6: Jar the Jam
Transfer the warm jam into sterilized glass jars. Seal the jars properly and place them upside down. Allow them to cool completely in this position to ensure a proper seal.
Step 7: Store the Jam
Once the jars are cool, store the jam in the refrigerator to maintain freshness and flavor.
Notes
Thickening
The jam will thicken as it cools. It is important to avoid adding more pectin than specified in the recipe to achieve the best consistency.
Yield
This recipe yields approximately 1 pint of jam.
Cook techniques
Cleaning and Pitting Cherries
To ensure your jam is free from impurities, rinse the fresh cherries under cold water. Use a cherry pitter or a knife to remove the pits and chop the cherries roughly for even cooking.
Melting Honey
In the Instant Pot’s sauté mode, melt the honey gently for about 2 minutes. This helps it integrate smoothly with other ingredients, ensuring a well-blended jam.
Pressure Cooking
After combining all ingredients in the Instant Pot, secure the lid and close the valve. Set to high pressure for 5 minutes. This method allows flavors to meld effectively while cooking the fruit quickly.
Natural Pressure Release
Once the cooking time is completed, let the pressure release naturally. This process helps the jam to set without sudden temperature changes impacting texture.
Jar Sterilization
Before transferring the jam to glass jars, ensure they are sterilized. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a dishwasher cycle.
Upside Down Cooling
To create a vacuum seal, place the jars upside down after filling them. This technique helps with preservation and maintains freshness for longer.
FAQ
Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh ones?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries. Just ensure they are thawed and drained before chopping and adding them to your recipe.
How can I adjust the sweetness of the jam?
You can add up to one cup of honey for a sweeter flavor. Taste the mixture before sealing the jars to ensure it meets your preferences.
What should I do if the jam isn’t thickening?
If the jam doesn’t thicken after cooling, it might be due to insufficient pectin. However, it’s best not to add more pectin once the cooking is done. Instead, store it in the refrigerator and use it as a fruit topping.
How long will the jam last in the refrigerator?
Properly sealed and stored in the refrigerator, the jam should last for about 2 to 3 weeks.
Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute cherries with other fruits like strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries, adjusting the quantity of honey and pectin as needed.
Conclusion
This fresh cherry jam made in the Instant Pot is a delightful treat that combines the sweetness of honey with the tartness of cherries, enhanced by a touch of lemon. Its simplicity and quick preparation make it a perfect way to capture the flavors of summer and enjoy them year-round. With just a few ingredients, you can create a delicious homemade jam that pairs beautifully with breakfast or as a topping for desserts.
Cherry and Almond Butter Spread
Combine this cherry jam with almond butter on toasted bread for a nutritious and delightful breakfast option.
Cherry Yogurt Parfait
Layer cherry jam with Greek yogurt and granola for a quick and healthy snack or a delightful dessert.
Cherry Glazed Chicken
Use this jam as a glaze for grilled or roasted chicken to add a sweet and tangy flavor to your meal.
Cherry Swirl Cheesecake
Incorporate the cherry jam into a cheesecake recipe for a lovely swirl effect and a burst of flavor.
Cherry Oatmeal Bars
Spread the cherry jam between layers of oatmeal crumble to create delicious bars that are perfect for on-the-go snacks.
Cherry Salad Dressing
Mix the cherry jam with olive oil and balsamic vinegar to create a sweet and tangy dressing for salads.
