Lemon marmalade is an explosion of flavor and freshness that brings the warmth of summer into a jar. Making homemade lemon marmalade is a rewarding experience and allows you to enjoy a wholesome product free of preservatives and additives.
In this article, we will guide you step by step in preparing a tasty, irresistible lemon marmalade.
Choosing the ingredients
To make high-quality lemon marmalade, the choice of ingredients is crucial. Be sure to select organic lemons, preferably not treated with pesticides or chemicals. The freshness of the lemons is essential, as it greatly affects the flavor and organoleptic properties of the marmalade.
Washing and preparing lemons
Before using the lemons, wash them thoroughly under running water to remove any residual dirt or pesticides. After that, gently dry them with a dish towel. Use a grater to take only the zest from the lemons, avoiding including the white part, which could make the marmalade bitter.
Cutting the lemons and extracting the juice
Once the zest has been prepared, cut the lemons in half and squeeze them to extract the juice. A tip: To make it easier to extract the juice, you can roll the lemons on a hard surface by pressing them lightly with your hand.
Preparing the mixture
In a large saucepan, combine the grated peels, freshly extracted lemon juice and sugar. The amount of sugar depends on your personal taste and the amount of lemons used, but generally use a 1:1 ratio (1 part sugar to 1 part lemon juice). Stir gently and let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes so that the ingredients blend.
Cooking
Turn on the stove to medium heat and bring the lemon-sugar mixture to a boil. While cooking, stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Let the jam cook until the mixture has thickened and reached the desired consistency. To test the consistency, you can place a small amount of jam on a cold saucer; if a thick film forms on the surface, then the jam is ready.
Storage
While the jam is still warm, pour it into sterilized glass jars and seal them tightly. Let the jars cool upside down to create a natural vacuum, which will help preserve the freshness of the jam. Store the jars in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.
Making delicious homemade lemon marmalade is a satisfying culinary experience that will allow you to enjoy the authentic taste and aroma of lemons.
By following these simple steps and using quality ingredients, you can create a jam that will make your homemade breakfasts, snacks and desserts special.