Plum Jam

Traditional and delicious homemade jam.

Step: 1

Place the plums and water into a large pot, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in the sugar, and add butter to reduce foaming, if needed. Bring the mixture to a full, rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly, and then mix in the pectin quickly. Return the jam to a full boil, and boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. Remove from heat, and skim off and discard any foam.

Step: 2

Sterilize the jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Pack the plum jam into the hot, sterilized jars, filling the jars to within 1/8 inch of the top. Run a knife or a thin spatula around the insides of the jars after they have been filled to remove any air bubbles. Wipe the rims of the jars with a moist paper towel to remove any food residue. Top with lids, and screw on rings.

Step: 3

Place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then carefully lower the jars into the pot using a holder. Leave a 2 inch space between the jars. Pour in more boiling water if necessary until the water level is at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars. Bring the water to a full boil, cover the pot, and process for 10 minutes.

Step: 4

Remove the jars from the stockpot and place onto a cloth-covered or wood surface, several inches apart, until cool. Once cool, press the top of each lid with a finger, ensuring that the seal is tight (lid does not move up or down at all). Store in a cool, dark area. Refrigerate opened jars for up to 3 weeks.

Per Serving: 48 calories; carbohydrates 12.4g; sodium 0.1mg.

Deciding stay in and make food your food instead of dining out is already a step in the best direction if you’re more point on eating healthier. There’s no good way to know precisely what’s going into the food you’re eat than by making it homemade Mastering the main dish is only half the battle , though . And once you’ve perfected your chicken, steak, or fish, that is time to make your attention to the ever- important side dishes.

A side dish would easily derail your health goals, as sugar , sodium, fat, and calories can all get rather high quickly if you’re not careful . But with our healthy side dish recipes, you won’t ever run into that problem .