Aunt Patsis Easy Peach Jam Recipes

FRESH SPICED PEACH JAM

Steps:

• Heat five 12-ounce jars in simmering water until ready for use. Wash lids and rings in warm soapy water.
• Mix peaches, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice in a large pot. Bring to a boil; cook, stirring occasionally, until peaches are soft, about 15 minutes. Remove from heat.
• Mash peaches with an immersion blender or potato masher to desired size and texture. Return to the heat; continue cooking jam until thickened, about 10 minutes more.
• Pack jam into hot jars, filling to within 1/4 inch of the top. Wipe rims with a clean, damp cloth. Top with lids and screw on rings.
• Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil and lower in jars using a holder, placing them 2 inches apart. Pour in more boiling water to cover the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a rolling boil, cover the pot, and process for 10 minutes.
• Remove the jars from the stockpot and place onto a cloth-covered or wood surface, several inches apart, until cool, about 12 hours. Press the top of each lid with a finger, ensuring that lid does not move up or down and seal is tight.

AUNTIE DORIS'S PEACH JAM

Steps:

• Place the peaches into a large bowl. Scrub the oranges then chop into pieces - including the peel. This is easiest done in a food processor so you don't lose as much juice. Transfer to the bowl with the peaches. Stir in sugar, cover, and refrigerate overnight.
• The next day, pour the entire contents of the bowl into a large pot. Bring to a simmer over low heat and cook for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally. Make sure the heat is low enough, or the jam will burn and stick to the bottom of the pot. This does not need to come to a rolling boil.
• While the jam simmers, sterilize your jars in boiling water for at least 5 minutes, and keep hot. Prepare new lids according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ladle the jam into the jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims with a clean damp cloth or paper towel, and seal with lids and rings. Process according to guidelines suggested by your local extension.