Imagine spreading a luxurious, deep-purple conserve that dances with warm chai spices, tangy balsamic, and crunchy toasted hazelnuts across your morning toast. This isn't just another jam – it's a culinary adventure that transforms ordinary preserves into an extraordinary taste experience. Perfect for food lovers who crave complexity, sophistication, and a touch of gourmet magic in every spoonful, this Chai Spiced Plum Conserve is about to become your new obsession.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 20 mins
Cuisine: Preserves
Serves: 3 cups
Ingredients
- 3 lbs plums, pitted and chopped
- 1 1/2 cups sugar
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1 cup toasted hazelnuts, chopped
- 2 tsp chai spice blend
Instructions
- Prepare your mise en place by washing, pitting, and chopping plums into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. Ensure hazelnuts are toasted and roughly chopped.
- In a heavy-bottomed large saucepan, combine chopped plums, sugar, and balsamic vinegar. Stir to combine and allow to macerate for 15 minutes to release fruit juices.
- Place the mixture over medium-high heat, bringing to a gentle boil while stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Reduce heat to medium-low and maintain a steady simmer.
- Continue cooking, stirring occasionally, allowing the mixture to reduce and thicken. Use a candy thermometer to monitor temperature - the conserve should reach approximately 220°F (soft-gel stage).
- As the mixture reduces, sprinkle in chai spice blend, stirring to distribute evenly. The spices will infuse depth and warmth into the conserve.
- Test the conserve's consistency by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it's ready. Total cooking time should be around 45-60 minutes.
- Remove from heat and immediately fold in toasted, chopped hazelnuts, which will provide textural contrast and nutty flavor.
- Carefully transfer hot conserve into sterilized glass jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace. Wipe jar rims clean and seal with sterilized lids.
- Allow jars to cool completely at room temperature. The conserve will continue to set as it cools. Store in refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
Tips
- Choose ripe, firm plums for the best flavor and natural pectin content.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution.
- Invest in a candy thermometer for precise temperature monitoring.
- Toast hazelnuts beforehand to enhance their nutty flavor and create a beautiful crunch.
- Sterilize your jars thoroughly to ensure long-lasting preservation.
- Allow the conserve to cool completely before sealing to prevent condensation.
- Don't rush the reduction process – slow cooking develops deeper, more complex flavors.
- Experiment with the chai spice blend to customize the warmth and intensity to your taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 890kcal
Carbohydrates: 155g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 0mg
