| Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 1 hour | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
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| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 198 | 0.2g | 0.1g | 51.5g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 47.8g | 1.7g | 0.3g | 0.01g |
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When I first stumbled upon the star apple at a local farmer’s market, I was intrigued by its dazzling appearance and sweet, tropical aroma. Transforming this exotic fruit into something as unique and delightful as Star Apple Marmalade was a no-brainer, yet the process held so much more in store than just taste. This recipe weaves tradition with innovation, perfectly encapsulating my love for flavor harmony and creative twists. I often find myself enjoying a spoonful of this marmalade on a crisp piece of toast, a habit that keeps a piece of my heritage close at heart while embracing new culinary horizons.
A Symphony of Flavors
The beauty of Star Apple Marmalade lies in its complexity and depth of flavor. With hints of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, this marmalade brings a warm, spiced note that playfully contrasts with the natural sweetness of the star apples. The addition of lemon juice and zest adds a subtle, refreshing tang that brightens the entire concoction. This balance of sweet, tangy, and spicy elements is reminiscent of another Southern favorite, spiced fruit preserves, but with the star apple taking center stage, it becomes a truly singular experience.
Nourishing and Nutritious
Star apple is not just a treat for your taste buds; it also comes packed with health benefits. Rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, this tropical fruit supports a healthy immune system, aids digestion, and helps in the fight against free radicals. The use of spices like cinnamon and nutmeg brings their own health perks, too; they are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and ability to regulate blood sugar levels. So not only is this Star Apple Marmalade sensational on your palate, but it also contributes to your overall well-being.
This marmalade is multifaceted, making it a star player in any culinary setting. Its sweet, spicy profile makes it a perfect complement to savory dishes as well. Try it paired with roasted meats or as a glaze for chicken—it lends a touch of exotic flair that can elevate even the simplest dishes. Additionally, smear it on pancakes or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies to make breakfast and dessert truly special.
In essence, Star Apple Marmalade is more than just a recipe; it is an experience that brings together nostalgia, flavor, and nutrition. Whether you’re well-versed in marmalade-making or new to the world of star apples, this recipe is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just as it has in mine.
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What You’ll Need
- 6 star apples
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
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Method
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Step One
Peel the star apples, remove the seeds, and chop the flesh into small pieces.
Step Two
In a large pot, combine the chopped star apples, granulated sugar, water, lemon juice, and grated lemon zest.
Step Three
Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
Step Four
Add the ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and ground cloves to the pot.
Step Five
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 45-60 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to a marmalade consistency.
Step Six
Remove the pot from the heat and let the marmalade cool slightly.
Step Seven
Transfer the marmalade to sterilized jars and seal tightly. Let it cool completely before storing.
Step Eight
Store the jars in the refrigerator and use within a few months. Enjoy your homemade star apple marmalade on toast, scones, or as a delightful topping for desserts!
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