Beach Plum Jelly Recipe

If you’re a fan of unique and flavorful preserves, then beach plum jelly is a must-try. This delightful jelly, made from the native beach plums that grow along the eastern coastline of the United States, offers a tart and sweet flavor that is perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or even using as a glaze for meats. In this blog post, you’ll learn everything you need to know about making your very own beach plum jelly at home. We’ll provide a detailed, step-by-step guide that will ensure your jelly turns out perfectly every time.

What are Beach Plums?

Beach plums (Prunus maritima) are small, wild plums that thrive in the sandy soils along the Atlantic coast from Maine to Virginia. These fruits are typically harvested in late summer to early fall and are prized for their unique, tangy flavor. The fruits are usually too tart to eat raw but make excellent preserves, sauces, and wines.

Why Make Beach Plum Jelly?

Making beach plum jelly is a wonderful way to preserve the unique taste of beach plums and enjoy it year-round. Whether you’re an experienced jammer or a novice, this recipe is straightforward and rewarding. Plus, homemade jelly makes for a thoughtful and delicious gift!

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Beach Plum Jelly

Recipe by SavoryByAshley

Servings

6

jars

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

1

hour 

Total time

90

minutes

Ingredients

• 4 cups of beach plums, rinsed and stemmed

• 4 cups of water

• 7 cups of granulated sugar

• 1 package (1.75 oz) of fruit pectin

• 1/4 cup of fresh lemon juice

Directions

• Place the beach plums and water in a large pot. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat to simmer. Cook until the plums are soft, about 20-30 minutes.
• Using a cheesecloth or jelly bag, strain the plum mixture into a large bowl. Allow the juice to drip through, without pressing on the fruit, to keep the jelly clear. You should have about 4 cups of juice.
• Return the juice to the pot and stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and fruit pectin.
• Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute while continuing to stir.
• Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.
• Pour the hot jelly into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and apply the lids.
• Process the jars in a boiling water canner for 5 minutes (adjust for altitude if necessary).
• Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool completely. Check the seals after 24 hours; the lids should not flex up and down when the center is pressed.

Tips for Making Perfect Beach Plum Jelly

To ensure your beach plum jelly turns out perfect, keep the following tips in mind:

• Use fresh, ripe plums: The quality of your jelly largely depends on the quality of the fruit you use. Pick plums that are fully ripe but not overripe.
• Don’t rush the straining process: Allow the juice to drip naturally to ensure a clear jelly.
• Measure accurately: Use precise measurements for ingredients, especially sugar and pectin, to ensure the jelly sets correctly.
• Skim the foam: Removing the foam will give your jelly a clearer, more appealing appearance.

Serving Suggestions

Beach plum jelly is incredibly versatile. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Spread on toast: A classic way to enjoy jelly is by spreading it on warm, buttered toast.
• Pair with cheese: Beach plum jelly complements a variety of cheeses, making it a great addition to cheese boards.
• Use as a glaze: Brush it over meats like pork or chicken for a deliciously sweet and tangy glaze.
• Mix into yogurt: Swirl a spoonful into plain yogurt for a burst of flavor.

Storing Your Jelly

Proper storage is key to enjoying your beach plum jelly for months to come. Keep your sealed jars in a cool, dark place and they will last for up to a year. Once opened, refrigerate the jars and consume the jelly within a few weeks.

Conclusion

Making beach plum jelly is a rewarding experience that allows you to savor the unique flavors of this delightful fruit year-round. With this detailed recipe and helpful tips, you are now ready to create your own batch of delicious beach plum jelly. Happy jamming! Find plenty of other great recipes at Savory by Ashley.