Fruit preserves are any type of fruit prepared and canned to allow for long term. Jams, jellies and marmalades are all examples of fruit preserves.
These different styles vary based upon the ingredients used. Fruit preserves are most commonly know as sweet spreads for baked goods, however preserves make excellent condiments or glazes for savory foods ( meats/cheeses), as well as, wonderful additions to yogurt, ice cream, and cakes.
A quick description of the varieties of fruit preserves:
- Jelly is made from fruit juice
- Jam is made from crushed fruit
- Preserves are made from whole fruit
- Fruit Spread is made from whole fruit or pureed fruit without any sugar
- Marmalade is made from using the fruit pulp and zest
- Fruit Butter is made by by forcing cooked fruit through a very fine-grained sieve resulting in a creamy preserve with a uniform texture.
- Confit is made by soaking whole small fruits fruits or segments (like oranges) in repeated changes of sugar syrup so that the sugar penetrates the fruit and acts as a preservative.
- Conserves are jams made from a mixture of fruits, usually including citrus fruit and often raisins and nuts are added.
- Fruit Curd is made with fruit juice and zest along with beaten egg yolks, sugar, fruit juice.
It is simple to make fruit preserves at home (we have provided a link below that explains the process).
Making Preserves (source: CHOW)
For immediate gratification you can also browse through the wonderful resources that we have found that provide many unique fruit preserves.
Food411 Handpicked Sources:
Condiments-Jams
Unique Jam Service:
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