French Peach Jam Recipe

My mum’s French Peach Jam Recipe is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer in a jar. Bursting with sweet, juicy peaches and the bright acidity of lemon, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping onto yogurt, or adding to desserts. Plus, it’s made without any artificial pectin, ensuring a natural texture that sets beautifully. Enjoy this versatile jam at breakfast or as a condiment for various occasions!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• All-Natural Ingredients: This peach jam uses fresh fruits and simple ingredients, allowing you to enjoy authentic flavors without additives.
• Easy to Make: With just a few steps and minimal equipment, you can create a delicious homemade jam that impresses.
• Versatile Uses: Whether on toast, in desserts, or as a filling for pastries, this jam can elevate many dishes.
• Perfect for Gifting: Jars of homemade peach jam make thoughtful gifts for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.
• Seasonal Indulgence: Capture the taste of summer peaches and enjoy them year-round with this easy recipe.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making your French Peach Jam, gather your tools. Having everything ready makes the process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Jam pan
• Hand blender
• Measuring cups
• Weighing scale
• Clean jars with lids

Importance of Each Tool

• Jam pan: A large surface area helps the jam cook evenly and allows moisture to evaporate, giving you the right consistency.
• Hand blender: This tool ensures a smooth texture in your jam, making it easy to spread or use in recipes.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity in your jam.

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Ingredients

To create this delightful French Peach Jam, you’ll need:

For the Jam

• 2.2 Pounds Peach (fresh or frozen)
• 3⅓ Cups Sugar
• 1 Lemon (juice it and keep lemon halves)

How to Make French Peach Jam Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Peaches

1. Rinse the peaches under cold water and pat them dry.
2. Cut each peach in half and remove the pit.
3. Cut further into quarters and peel the skin off.

Step 2: Measure Ingredients

1. Weigh the peeled peaches using your kitchen scale to ensure accuracy.

Step 3: Cook the Mixture

1. Place the peeled peaches into a large jam pan.
2. Add sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice along with the lemon halves.
3. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 4: Boil and Simmer

1. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium heat.
2. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer for at least 40–50 minutes until fruits look glossy.

Step 5: Blend to Desired Consistency

1. Remove and discard the lemon halves from the mixture.
2. Use a hand blender to blend until you reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Test for Setting Point

1. Continue simmering until it reaches setting point.
2. To test, drop hot jam on an ice-cold plate; if it holds its shape without running, it’s ready.

Step 7: Prepare Jars for Storage

1. Before filling jars, add a splash of alcohol-free vanilla extract into each lid to help prevent mold growth.
2. Carefully fill clean jars with hot peach jam while it’s still warm.

Step 8: Seal and Store

1. Close jars tightly with lids and turn them upside down for a few hours.
2. Once cooled down, store in a cool place away from sunlight; refrigerate if living in humid climates.

Enjoy experimenting with this French Peach Jam Recipe!

How to Serve French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam is a delightful treat that can elevate various dishes. Here are some serving suggestions to enjoy this delicious jam in different ways.

On Toast

• Toasted Bread: Spread a generous layer of peach jam on warm, toasted bread for a simple breakfast or snack.
• Croissants: Pair your jam with flaky croissants for a luxurious morning treat.

With Cheese

• Cream Cheese: Serve peach jam over cream cheese on crackers for a sweet and savory appetizer.
• Goat Cheese: The tangy flavor of goat cheese complements the sweetness of the jam beautifully.

In Desserts

• Yogurt Parfait: Layer peach jam in yogurt with granola for a refreshing parfait.
• Ice Cream Topping: Drizzle the jam over vanilla ice cream for an easy dessert upgrade.

In Cooking

• Marinade: Use the jam as a glaze for chicken or turkey before roasting to add flavor and moisture.
• Salad Dressing: Mix it with olive oil and vinegar for a fruity salad dressing.

How to Perfect French Peach Jam Recipe

To achieve the best results with your French peach jam, consider these helpful tips.

• Choose ripe peaches: Select fresh, ripe peaches for optimal sweetness and flavor in your jam.
• Use a heavy-bottomed pot: A sturdy pot helps distribute heat evenly, preventing burning during cooking.
• Test for doneness: Always perform the plate test by dropping hot jam onto a cold plate to check if it sets properly.
• Store properly: Ensure jars are clean and airtight to extend shelf life and maintain quality.
• Adjust sweetness: If your peaches aren’t very sweet, feel free to add more sugar according to taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for French Peach Jam Recipe

French peach jam pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here’s a list of delectable options that complement its flavors.

1. Brie Cheese: Soft brie pairs excellently with the sweetness of the jam, creating an indulgent appetizer.
2. Greek Yogurt: Combine with yogurt for a creamy base that balances the fruitiness of the jam.
3. Oatmeal: Stir into warm oatmeal for added sweetness and flavor in your morning bowl.
4. Scones: Enjoy peach jam spread on freshly baked scones for an afternoon treat with tea.
5. Fruit Salad: Toss into a fruit salad to enhance freshness and provide extra sweetness.
6. Pancakes: Use as a topping over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup for a fruity twist.
7. Cheese Platter: Include in cheese platters alongside assorted cheeses and nuts for an elegant touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making French Peach Jam can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes that could affect the outcome of your jam.

• Bold choice of fruit: Using overripe or under-ripe peaches can lead to poor texture and flavor. Choose perfectly ripe peaches for the best results.
• Bold sugar measurement: Not measuring sugar accurately may result in jam that is either too sweet or does not set correctly. Use a kitchen scale for precise measurements.
• Bold cooking time: Cooking the jam for too long can cause it to caramelize, while not cooking long enough can prevent proper setting. Keep an eye on the consistency as it cooks.
• Bold equipment hygiene: Filling jars with jam from unclean equipment can lead to spoilage. Always ensure your jars and utensils are sterilized before use.
• Bold testing for doneness: Skipping the plate test can mean you end up with runny jam. Always perform the cold plate test to check if your jam has set properly.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in clean, airtight jars.
• French peach jam can last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing French Peach Jam Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some space for expansion.
• The jam can be frozen for up to 6 months without losing its quality.

Reheating French Peach Jam Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat the jar wrapped in foil for about 15 minutes.
• Microwave: Place a portion in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds until warm.
• Stovetop: Warm gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making French Peach Jam.

How do I know when my French Peach Jam recipe is ready?

The jam is ready when it has a glossy appearance, and passes the cold plate test, meaning it holds its shape without running.

Can I use frozen peaches for this French Peach Jam Recipe?

Yes! Frozen peaches work well as they retain their flavor and consistency. Just thaw them before use.

Is there any alternative to sugar in this French Peach Jam Recipe?

You can use natural sweeteners like honey or agave syrup, but adjust quantities as they might be sweeter than sugar.

How long will my peach jam last after opening?

Once opened, store your French peach jam in the fridge and consume within 2-3 weeks for the best taste and freshness.

Can I add spices or other flavors to my peach jam?

Absolutely! Consider adding cinnamon or ginger for added warmth or even vanilla extract for a unique twist on your French peach jam recipe.

Final Thoughts

This French Peach Jam recipe is a wonderful way to capture summer’s essence in a jar. Its all-natural ingredients ensure that you enjoy authentic flavors without additives. Feel free to customize your jam by adding spices or mixing other fruits into the blend!