SPICED GINGER PEACH JAM RECIPE - (4.3/5)

Steps:

• Equipment needed/recommended: Canning kit: includes pot with lid, canning rack, funnel, tongs Canning jars, bands and lids, washed and sanitized (I set them in the water canning pot, while the water is coming to a boil, remove with tongs and set on a baking sheet with a towel Large bowl of ice with water (for blanching the peaches) For the peaches: Wash the fruit and bring a large pot of water to a boil. With a paring knife, cut a small "x" on the bottom of each peach (I also cut an "x" on the top of each peach). When the water is boiling, gently place the peaches in the pot and cook for 2 minutes, max. Using a slotted spoon, remove the peaches into an ice water bath and allow to sit for a few minutes. Using a paring knife (I use my fingers), pull on the skin at an "x" and the peels should come right off. If adding the ginger and spices, prep those and set aside. For the jam: Mash (or use the pulse feature on a food processor) the peeled peaches, to yield 8 cups. Add the prepared fruit into a large pot, and add the sugar. Bring to a gentle boil, and slowly add the pectin. Add the lemon zest, lemon juice, ginger and spices (if using) and vanilla(or vanilla bean seeds). Allow the jam to come to a rolling boil, can take about 10 minutes. TIP: I know when the jam has thickened enough when it coats the back of a spoon. I like to freeze a few spoons, to better test this theory. Once the jam is thick, turn off the heat. Carefully spoon the jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4" head space. Add a lid and band and tighten-- but don't over tighten. I like to water can the filled jars, by placing them into a canning rack, and bring to a boil for about ten minutes. Remove, carefully, with tongs onto a baking sheet with a fresh towel. Listen for the "ping" as each can self-seals. Enjoy this jam with fresh scones or homemade bread. Delicious!