Citrus Jam
- Gluten Free
- Lactose Free
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Energy Kcal 251
- Carbohydrates g 62.6
- of which sugars g 62.6
- Protein g 0.1
- Fiber g 0.6
- Sodium mg 16
- Difficulty: Easy
- Prep time: 20 min
- Cook time: 1 h 10 min
- Serving: 10
- Cost: Low
- Note + cooling times for the jam
PRESENTATION
When it comes to Italian holiday traditions, citrus marmalade is, like, totally a must-have. It fills kitchens with those sweet and tangy aromas that are just irresistible. Really, it's a big deal. In many Italian homes, people love to whip up their own homemade marmalade using a mix of oranges, mandarins, and sometimes lemons or grapefruits—pretty much whatever's on hand. This citrus marmalade has a unique twist with cinnamon and vanilla, giving off those warm Christmas vibes that remind you of chilly mornings and cozy breakfasts.
And you know, instead of sticking to just one citrus type, folks often blend several, making each batch a little different. A spoonful on crispy toast brings a golden, fruity zing that's just perfect for a slow winter morning. Really really good.
Throughout Italy, exchanging jam jars is, you know, a cherished tradition, especially during Christmas. People enjoy making their own easy marmalade recipe—adding cute labels and sharing them with friends and neighbors. Some folks add more cinnamon, others lean into the vanilla, or even toss in star anise for a bold touch. Kids get into it too, helping peel oranges or draw on jars. And listen, the process isn’t fancy, but it’s got this moist, cheerful energy that sticks with you.
Whether spread thick on fresh bread or mixed into yogurt, this citrus marmalade is so so distinct from regular orange or lemon marmalade thanks to its Italian holiday flair. And the scent? Fills the house with nostalgia. Honestly, makes breakfast or a simple snack feel extra special.
Making a batch is a wonderful way to share a slice of Italian tender tradition. And a homemade jar? Always a thoughtful, tasty gift during the holiday season. This simple yet super tasty tradition is a beautiful way to connect with loved ones and celebrate the flavors of Italy. For sure.
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- INGREDIENTS
- Ingredients for about 4 jars with a capacity of 90 g
- Oranges 4.4 lbs (2 kg) - Navel
- Mandarin oranges 2 ½ cups (500 g)
- Sugar 1.7 cups (340 g)
- Cinnamon sticks 2
- Vanilla bean 1
How to prepare Citrus Jam
To prepare the citrus jam, start by sanitizing the jars as indicated by the Ministry of Health. Then, peel the oranges thoroughly 1. Cut the peel of one orange into thin strips 2. Boil water in a small pot and blanch the strips you have obtained for a couple of minutes 3.
Then drain them 4 and repeat the operation, boiling fresh water and blanching the peels again: by repeating the process with new water, you will remove a percentage of the bitter taste from the peel. Drain the peels again and set aside 5. Extract the pulp segments of the oranges 6, trying to preserve the juice that comes out (you can collect it in a bowl).
Then squeeze the juice from all the mandarins 7, filter it, and pour it into a saucepan 8; add the orange pulp and their juice as well 9,
the sugar 10, the cinnamon sticks 11, and the vanilla bean seeds 12.
Mix the ingredients 13; turn on the heat to medium-low and bring to a light boil: cook like this for 35 minutes. After 35 minutes, you can also add the orange peels 14. Stir, then remove the vanilla pod 15 and the cinnamon sticks.
Cook for another 35 minutes approximately: you will need to check the temperature with a kitchen thermometer: when it reaches 108°F 16, the citrus jam will be ready. You can store it, still hot, in the just sanitized jars using a funnel 17. Proceed by tightly screwing the jars 18 and letting the jam cool completely. Make sure, before consumption, that the lids do not make the classic "click-clack" sound when pressed in the center, indicating that the vacuum seal has not occurred correctly. For these and other instructions, we always refer to the information regarding homemade preserves from the Ministry of Health.