3-Ingredient Lemon Jam Recipe
Introduction
This 3-Ingredient Lemon Jam is a bright and tangy treat that captures the fresh flavor of lemons in a simple, sweet spread. Made with just lemons, sugar, and water, it’s a perfect homemade jam to brighten up your toast or desserts.
Ingredients
- 12 lemons
- 800 grams granulated sugar
- 600 milliliters water
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash the lemons and cut off the tips. Slice each lemon in half and then into thin slices.
- Step 2: Remove any pits and discard any parts of the skin that look black or damaged.
- Step 3: Place the sliced lemons in a large bowl, cover them with water, and let them marinate for 24 hours.
- Step 4: After marinating, drain the lemons and transfer them to a large pot. Add the granulated sugar and water.
- Step 5: Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat. Cook gently for a couple of hours, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The natural pectin in lemons will thicken the jam quickly, so keep a close eye on it.
- Step 6: When the jam has thickened, immediately spoon it into sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly, then place them upside down covered with a towel until completely cool.
Tips & Variations
- Use organic lemons to avoid any unwanted pesticide residues and for better flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, you can pulse the cooked lemons briefly in a blender before jar filling.
- For extra aroma, add a vanilla bean or a cinnamon stick while cooking, removing it before jarring.
Storage
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dry place. Properly sealed, the lemon jam can last for several months. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and use within 2 to 3 weeks. Reheat gently if you want to loosen the texture before serving.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use regular lemons or do they need to be organic?
Organic lemons are preferred to reduce pesticide exposure, especially since the peel is used in this jam. However, regular lemons can be used if thoroughly washed and peeled carefully.
How do I know when the jam is ready?
The jam is ready when it thickens noticeably and no longer looks watery. Because lemons have a high natural pectin content, it sets faster than many other jams. Frequent stirring and watching the texture helps prevent burning.
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3-Ingredient Lemon Jam Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 25 minutes plus 24 hours marinating
- Yield: Approximately 4 jars (about 500 ml each) 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This simple and delicious 3-Ingredient Lemon Jam recipe combines fresh lemons, granulated sugar, and water to create a tangy, sweet spread perfect for toast, desserts, or as a citrusy addition to various dishes. The jam is made by marinating lemon slices, simmering them with sugar, and then preserving them in sterilized jars for long-term storage.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 12 Lemons
- 800 grams Granulated Sugar
- 600 milliliters Water
Instructions
- Prepare Lemons: Wash the lemons thoroughly and cut off the tips. Then slice each lemon in half followed by thin slices. Carefully remove all pits and any discolored, black-ish skin parts to ensure a clean, smooth jam.
- Marinate Lemons: Place the sliced lemons into a large bowl and cover completely with water. Allow them to marinate for 24 hours, which helps reduce bitterness and soften the lemon peel for better jam consistency.
- Combine Ingredients: After marination, drain the water and transfer the lemons to a large pot. Add the granulated sugar and measured water to the pot with the lemons.
- Simmer the Jam: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over low heat. Cook slowly, stirring frequently for approximately 2 hours. Lemons have natural pectin that helps the jam thicken quickly, so continual stirring is important to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pot.
- Jar the Jam: Once the jam has thickened to your liking, immediately pour the hot jam into sterilized jars. Seal the jars tightly with lids and turn them upside down. Cover the jars with a towel and let them cool completely to create a vacuum seal for preservation.
- Store: Store the cooled jars in a dry, cool place. Properly sealed, the lemon jam can last for several months, making it an excellent homemade preserve for future enjoyment.
Notes
- Ensure jars are properly sterilized before filling to prevent spoilage.
- Consistent low heat and frequent stirring are key to avoid burning the jam.
- The natural pectin in lemons means no added pectin is necessary for thickening.
- Adjust sugar amount based on your preferred sweetness.
- Use organic lemons if possible to minimize pesticide residue.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes plus 24 hours marinating
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Category: Jam
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
Keywords: lemon jam, homemade jam, 3 ingredient jam, citrus preserve, easy jam recipe, stovetop jam
