Hibiscus Orange Jam Recipe

Hibiscus Orange Jam is a delightful spread that blends the tangy citrus notes of orange with the floral essence of hibiscus. This homemade jam is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an easy-to-make, healthy addition to your kitchen repertoire. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a fragrant, flavorful jam that’s perfect for toasts, desserts, or even a cup of soothing tea. The combination of hibiscus flowers, orange peel, and agar agar powder creates a unique jam that bursts with vibrant colors and taste.

Why You’ll Love This Hibiscus Orange Jam

This Hibiscus Orange Jam is an excellent choice for those seeking a versatile, quick, and flavorful recipe. Whether you’re looking to add a unique twist to your breakfast or explore new ways to enjoy jam, this recipe delivers. It is naturally plant-based, making it perfect for vegans, and it offers a delightful balance between sweetness and tanginess. The addition of dried hibiscus flowers elevates the jam’s flavor profile, making it not only a treat for your palate but also an elegant addition to your culinary creations.

Ingredients

• Dried Hibiscus Flowers: Adds floral, tangy notes that make this jam unique.
• Orange Peel: Offers citrusy sweetness and aroma to balance the floral flavor.
• Water: Acts as the base for simmering the ingredients, helping to extract flavors.
• Blonde Sugar (or Turbinado/Demerara): Adds sweetness with a hint of caramel flavor.
• Agar Agar Powder: A natural gelling agent that thickens the jam without using pectin.

Alternative Ingredient Suggestions
• If you don’t have blonde sugar, you can substitute with white sugar, coconut sugar, or maple syrup for a different sweetness profile.
• You can also experiment with other citrus fruits like lemon or lime for a varied flavor base.

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. In a saucepan, combine 30 g dried hibiscus flowers, finely grated peel from one orange, 300 g blonde sugar, and 480 ml water.
2. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Depending on your texture preference, you can either strain the liquid or leave the flowers and peel in for a chunkier jam. For a smoother jam, strain the liquid into a bowl, pressing the solids to extract all flavors, then discard the solids.
4. For a chunkier consistency, blend the mixture until you reach your desired texture before proceeding.
5. In a separate small bowl, dissolve 1 1/2 teaspoons agar agar powder in a small amount of cold water. Add this mixture to your hibiscus orange liquid in the saucepan.
6. Stir continuously and simmer for a few more minutes, allowing the agar agar to activate and the jam to thicken.
7. Once the jam reaches your desired consistency, remove from heat and let it cool.
8. Pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal them, and let the jam cool completely before storing.

Tips & Tricks

• Be careful not to overcook the jam, as it may become too thick. If it does, you can always add a little water to loosen it.
• To ensure the jam has the right consistency, check it by placing a small spoonful on a cold plate; it should firm up but not be too stiff.
• Store your Hibiscus Orange Jam in sterilized jars to prolong freshness. It can be kept in the fridge for up to two weeks.
• If you prefer a spicier twist, you can add a pinch of ground ginger or a cinnamon stick during the simmering process.

Pairing Ideas and Variations

This Hibiscus Orange Jam pairs beautifully with toasted bread, scones, or even as a topping for yogurt. For an added twist, try it on pancakes or waffles for a vibrant breakfast. If you’re feeling adventurous, it can also serve as a unique glaze for roasted vegetables or meats.

For those who prefer a sugar-free option, consider replacing the sugar with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. You can also experiment by adding different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a savory variation.

Seasonal Uses for Hibiscus Orange Jam

Hibiscus Orange Jam is especially perfect for the spring and summer months, where citrus fruits are at their peak. The floral notes of hibiscus complement the freshness of seasonal fruits, making this jam a refreshing addition to your cooking. The jam also makes a great gift during the holiday season, especially when paired with homemade bread or crackers.

Conclusion

With its unique blend of hibiscus and orange flavors, this Hibiscus Orange Jam is a delightful spread that elevates your everyday meals. Easy to make and incredibly versatile, it’s a must-try for anyone who loves experimenting with new, natural jams. Whether you’re using it to complement your breakfast or as a flavorful accent in your cooking, this jam is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

FAQs

More Relevant Recipes

Print