| Prep: 30 mins | Cook: 40 mins – 60 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 313 | 0.3g | 0.1g | 78g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 72g | 4g | 1.5g | 0.05g |
When I think back on my childhood, I often recall the heady, tropical aromas of my mother’s kitchen. Over the years, I’ve taken those memories and applied them to my own unique fusion of Southern and West African cooking. One of my favorite recipes that encapsulates this fusion beautifully is the Mangosteen Jam. This delectable spread pairs the sweetness of the South with the exotic tastes of West Africa in a mouth-watering marriage that’s a joy to behold. Here’s why I’m particularly fond of this recipe.
A Flavorful Fusion
Mangosteen, a healthy and delicious fruit that brings the tropical vibe of West Africa to your table, is the star ingredient of the Mangosteen Jam. The fruit is known for its fleshy, juicy texture and subtly sweet flavor. Bringing that to a jam required experimenting with sugar and spices found in Southern cookbook staples. The result? A rich, velvety spread that can easily become your new toast companion or a unique filling for traditional Southern pies.
Health Benefits and Usage
But it is far more than just the taste that I love about the Mangosteen Jam recipe. Mangosteen, a fruit native to Southeast Asia, which also thrives in the Nigerian climate, is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s high in fiber, vitamin C and carries potential anti-inflammatory properties. The presence of pectin in the recipe also aids digestion.
This Jam is not only ideal as a spread on your morning toast or as a sugar substitute in your pastries, but it also complements a variety of hearty dishes. Think roasted meats, savory pastries, and even your Thanksgiving turkey. Pair it with Greek yogurt for a tangy, healthy breakfast or use it in a cheese platter for a sophisticated dessert of contrasting flavors.
If you’re familiar with the warm and rich flavors of apple butter or the tangy sweetness of rhubarb jam, you’ll appreciate the similar, yet distinctively unique, flavors in this mangosteen jam. On another note, fans of southern peach jam or apricot preserve would find resemblances in the texture and consistency of this homemade delight.
Try partnering Mangosteen Jam with classic Southern dishes like buttermilk biscuits or fried chicken. It offers a fruity respite from the savory onslaught of Southern staples. It’s a hit even with scones and cream, adding a touch of tropical romance to a classic English afternoon tea. If you’re wondering where to procure your mangosteen, several online vendors can deliver them fresh.
A fusion of cuisines, a celebration of flavors, and a journey in each bite – that’s my Mangosteen Jam for you. It’s a recipe that speaks volumes about my love for cross-cultural cooking. So next time you’re looking for something to uplift your breakfast or to add an exotic twist to your dishes, give this a whirl. It’s all the goodness of tropical fruits packed in a jar that you’ll fall in love with over and over again.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of fresh mangosteens
- 1 1/2 cups of granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of pectin
- 1/2 teaspoon of butter
- 1/4 teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)
- 6 sterilized jars with lids
Method
Step One
First, rinse the mangosteens thoroughly and peel the skin away from the flesh. Discard the skin and place the flesh in a large bowl. Mash the fruit with a potato masher until it’s pulpy and juicy.
Step Two
Transfer the mashed mangosteen to a large saucepan and add the granulated sugar. Stir together until combined. Then, place the saucepan over medium heat until the mixture begins to simmer.
Step Three
Add the fresh lemon juice to the saucepan, stirring it into the mixture. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture, continuously stirring for about 10 to 15 minutes, or until the fruit is very soft.
Step Four
Next, sprinkle the pectin over the simmering fruit mixture and continue to stir for another 15 to 20 minutes, or until the mixture begins to thicken. Add the butter and stir until it’s melted and incorporated into the jam.
Step Five
If you prefer, sprinkle the cinnamon into the jam and stir to evenly distribute throughout the mixture. This step is optional and can be skipped if preferred.
Step Six
Finally, ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about a 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth. Put a lid on each jar and tighten it securely. Once the jars are cool, refrigerate. Let the jam set at least 12 hours before using.
Note: The jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a month. Enjoy your homemade mangosteen jam!
