| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 55 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 133 | 0g | 0g | 35g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 35g | 1g | 0g | 0.08g |
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Reliving My Roots
Growing up in California with a strong Gujarati influence, fruit-based preserves were a staple in our household. My grandmother would make various types of pickles and jams, and every spoonful was a nostalgic trip back to her kitchen. The unique, intricate form of the fingered citron, also known as Buddha’s hand, brings both visual and taste appeal, echoing the exotic ingredients often used in Gujarati cuisine. Every slice of this fingered citron brings me a step closer to my heritage while enjoying the unparalleled freshness that Californian fruits offer.
A Healthier Option
Beyond its vibrant flavor, this Fingered Citron Marmalade offers some wonderful health benefits. The Buddha’s hand citron is rich in Vitamin C, known for boosting the immune system and skin health. Lemon juice adds an additional punch of antioxidants and supports digestion, while the modest amount of salt helps balance electrolytes. Unlike many commercial marmalades that are laden with preservatives and artificial flavors, this homemade version allows you to savor the pure, beneficial elements of each ingredient.
Not only does this marmalade stand wonderfully on its own, but it’s also incredibly versatile. It can accompany a variety of dishes; spread a generous layer on your toast, or add a dollop to yogurt for a refreshing twist. It even pairs excellently with cheese boards, offering a tangy counterpart to rich, creamy cheeses.
If you’re a fan of marmalades and preserves, you might also enjoy exploring recipes like orange marmalade or apricot jam, which similarly utilize the natural sweetness and tartness of fruits. These traditional recipes, like the fingered citron marmalade, capture the essence of fruit and offer a taste that is both comforting and invigorating.
For more information on the benefits of fingered citron, you can visit WebMD’s overview or learn more about the fascinating history of Buddha’s hand on Wikipedia. Each click brings you closer to understanding why this extraordinary citrus fruit deserves a place in your kitchen.
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What You’ll Need
- 2 cups of fingered citron (Buddha’s hand), finely sliced
- 3 cups water
- 3 cups granulated sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
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Method
Step One
Rinse the fingered citron thoroughly and pat dry. Carefully slice the citron into very thin, even pieces, removing any seeds if present. Place the sliced citron in a large pot.
Step Two
Add the 3 cups of water to the pot containing the sliced citron. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, or until the citron is tender.
Step Three
Add the granulated sugar to the pot, stirring continuously to ensure it dissolves completely. After the sugar has dissolved, add the lemon juice and salt to the mixture. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
Step Four
Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Cook until the mixture reaches a gel-like consistency and thickens, which should take about 45-60 minutes. You can test the consistency by placing a small spoonful of the marmalade on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when pushed, it’s ready.
Step Five
Once the desired consistency is achieved, remove the pot from the heat. Carefully ladle the hot marmalade into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars with sterilized lids.
Step Six
Let the jars cool to room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place. For long-term storage, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. The fingered citron marmalade is now ready to enjoy on toast, scones, or as a delightful addition to various dishes.
