We all love a good homemade jam, and when it's made from fresh, seasonal fruit, it's even better. Mirabelle plums, with their sweet and slightly tart flavor, are a perfect choice for making jam.

This delicious and simple recipe will show you how to make Mirabelle plum jam that you'll want to spread on everything!

Why Choose Mirabelle Plums for Jam?

Mirabelle plums are small, golden-yellow fruits known for their rich, sweet flavor. They are often used in jams and preserves due to their natural sweetness and low acidity. When made into jam, these plums create a vibrant, flavorful spread that is perfect for breakfast, desserts, or as a sweet addition to your favorite recipes.

These plums are also packed with nutrients. They contain vitamins A and C, which are great for skin health and boosting the immune system. The natural sugars in Mirabelle plums give the jam a wonderfully rich taste, meaning you won't need to add too much sweetener.

Ingredients for Mirabelle Plum Jam

To make the jam, we need just a few simple ingredients. Here's what we'll need:

• Mirabelle plums – Fresh, ripe plums are the star of the show. We need about 1 kg of plums, which will yield around 3 jars of jam.

• Sugar – Sugar is essential for creating the jam's texture and sweetness. We'll need around 700 grams of sugar.

• Lemon juice – Lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and acts as a natural preservative. We'll use the juice of one lemon.

• Water – A small amount of water is needed to get things started and help the fruit break down.

• Pectin (optional) – While Mirabelle plums contain enough natural pectin to help the jam set, you can use additional pectin if you prefer a firmer texture.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Mirabelle Plum Jam

1. Prepare the Plums

Begin by washing the plums thoroughly. Cut them in half and remove the stones. If you prefer a smoother jam, you can chop the plums into smaller pieces, but if you like a chunkier texture, leave them as halves.

2. Cook the Plums

Place the plums into a large saucepan or jam pan with the water and lemon juice. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the plums soften and release their juices. This should take about 10 minutes.

3. Add the Sugar

Once the plums are soft, add the sugar to the pan and stir until it dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a boil and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. As it cooks, the jam will thicken.

4. Check the Jam's Consistency

To check if the jam is ready, take a small spoonful and place it on a cold plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push it with your finger. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready. If it's too runny, continue to cook for a little longer.

5. Jar the Jam

Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and pour it into sterilized jars while it's still hot. Seal the jars immediately, and let them cool completely. Once cooled, your Mirabelle plum jam is ready to enjoy!

Storing Your Jam

To store your homemade Mirabelle plum jam, keep it in a cool, dark place. The jam will keep for several months if unopened. Once opened, store the jar in the refrigerator, where it will last for up to a month.

If you prefer a smooth texture, you can blend the jam after it has cooled, but many people enjoy the rustic, chunky texture of the fruit. This jam makes a wonderful gift, so consider making a few extra jars for friends and family.

Making Mirabelle plum jam at home is an easy and rewarding way to preserve the sweetness of summer. With just a few ingredients and some patience, we can create a delicious, homemade spread that adds a burst of flavor to any meal. Whether enjoyed on toast, as a topping for desserts, or stirred into yogurt, this jam is sure to be a hit. So, next time you come across Mirabelle plums, grab a batch and start making your own homemade jam—you won't regret it!