Damsons are small, dark plums that offer a wonderfully tart flavor, making them ideal for jam-making. When turned into jam, damsons create a beautifully rich and intensely fruity preserve that pairs well with toast, scones, yogurt, or even savory dishes like roast meats and cheese. This easy damson jam recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned jam-makers alike. With minimal ingredients and no need for added pectin, you can enjoy homemade jam bursting with flavor and a natural, deep purple hue.
What Are Damsons?
Understanding This Unique Fruit
Damsons are a variety of plum, typically smaller and more astringent than the common dessert plums. They grow on trees and are usually in season from late summer to early autumn, depending on your location. Their sharp flavor and high pectin content make them especially suited for jams and preserves.
Why Choose Damsons for Jam?
One of the biggest advantages of using damsons in jam-making is their natural richness in pectin, which means you don’t need to add artificial pectin to achieve a good set. The flavor of damsons is also distinct slightly sour with deep fruitiness which results in a bold, complex jam that’s both sweet and tangy.
Ingredients for Easy Damson Jam
Simple, Natural Ingredients
This easy damson jam recipe uses only a few pantry staples. You can scale the quantities up or down depending on how many damsons you have.
- 1 kg fresh damsons (washed and stalks removed)
- 800 g granulated sugar (or adjust to taste)
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional, for brightness)
- 100 ml water (to start the cooking process)
Optional Additions
While the base recipe is delicious on its own, you can add a touch of spice for variation:
- 1 cinnamon stick
- A pinch of ground cloves
- Vanilla extract for a softer finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Fruit
Start by washing the damsons thoroughly. Remove any stems and discard any damaged or bruised fruit. There’s no need to pit the damsons at this stage, as the stones will be removed during or after cooking.
Cooking the Damsons
- Place the damsons and water in a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan or preserving pan.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Let it simmer for 1520 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the fruit softens and begins to break apart.
- As the fruit cooks down, the stones will loosen. You can either pick them out with a slotted spoon or wait until after the sugar is added.
Adding Sugar and Lemon Juice
- Once the fruit is softened and most stones are removed, add the sugar and lemon juice. Stir until the sugar dissolves completely. If you’re using any spices, add them at this stage.
- Turn up the heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Boil rapidly for about 1015 minutes, or until the jam reaches setting point.
Testing for Set
To test whether your damson jam has reached setting point, place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes. Drop a spoonful of jam onto the cold plate and wait 30 seconds. If the surface wrinkles when you push it with your finger, the jam is ready. If not, continue boiling and test again in a few minutes.
Final Steps
- Once your jam has set, remove the pan from the heat. Skim off any foam from the surface.
- Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top.
- Seal with clean lids and allow to cool completely. Store in a cool, dark place.
How to Sterilize Jars
Keeping It Safe
Sterilizing jars is an essential step in jam-making to prevent mold and prolong shelf life. Here’s how to do it easily:
- Wash jars and lids in hot soapy water, then rinse well.
- Place them on a baking tray and heat in the oven at 130°C (270°F) for 1015 minutes.
- Alternatively, run them through a hot dishwasher cycle and use while still hot.
Storing and Serving Damson Jam
Storage Tips
Once sealed, your damson jam can last up to a year if stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within a few weeks.
Serving Suggestions
Damson jam is incredibly versatile. Here are some delicious ways to enjoy it:
- Spread on toast, muffins, or croissants
- Swirled into Greek yogurt or oatmeal
- As a filling for sponge cakes, tarts, or thumbprint cookies
- Paired with soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese
- Used as a glaze for roast meats such as pork or duck
Tips for the Best Damson Jam
Balance Sweetness and Tartness
Damsons are naturally tart, so sugar is necessary to balance the flavor. However, feel free to adjust the sugar level to your taste. Just be aware that reducing sugar too much can affect the jam’s texture and shelf life.
Removing Stones Efficiently
If you prefer a smoother experience, remove all stones during the initial cooking phase using a slotted spoon. Some people also push the fruit through a sieve after cooking to ensure a stone-free jam.
Use a Preserving Pan
A wide, shallow preserving pan allows for even heat distribution and faster boiling, which helps preserve the flavor and color of the damsons.
Health Benefits of Homemade Jam
Better Control Over Ingredients
Making jam at home allows you to control exactly what goes in. Unlike store-bought versions that may contain preservatives, colorings, or excessive sugar, homemade damson jam can be as natural as you like.
Rich in Antioxidants
Damsons are packed with antioxidants, especially anthocyanins, which give them their deep purple color. These compounds are known to support heart health and fight inflammation.
Making easy damson jam at home is a rewarding and enjoyable kitchen project that doesn’t require any special equipment or advanced skills. With just a few simple ingredients and a bit of patience, you can create a delicious preserve that celebrates the natural flavor of seasonal damsons. Whether you’re spreading it on breakfast toast or using it in your favorite desserts, this jam is a wonderful way to make the most of this unique fruit. Keep a few jars in your pantry or gift them to friends and family it’s a taste of homemade goodness that everyone can enjoy.