Introduction
Welcome to a delightful escape into the world of homemade preserves! Today, I’m excited to share a recipe that brings a touch of tropical charm to your kitchen: Drunken Monkey Banana Rum Jam. This whimsical creation is not just a spread; it’s a celebration of flavor with luscious ripe bananas kissed by rich dark rum and a hint of zesty lemon. Perfect for spreading on warm toast or using in desserts, this jam is sure to become a cherished favorite in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup dark rum
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: About 2 cups
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed bananas with the granulated sugar. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the mixture is beautifully combined.
- Transfer this sweet banana mixture to a saucepan and place it over medium heat. Add in the dark rum, lemon juice, and cinnamon, allowing everything to gently simmer together while stirring frequently.
- As the mixture starts to bubble enticingly, sprinkle in the fruit pectin. Continue to stir continuously for about 10 minutes, allowing the jam to thicken and develop a rich texture.
- Once thickened, remove the saucepan from heat and let it cool slightly for around 5 minutes.
- Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars. Seal them tightly to lock in all that wonderful flavor.
- Allow the jars to cool to room temperature before placing them in the refrigerator.
- For the best taste experience, let the jam set for at least 24 hours before enjoying.
Notes or Tips
Feel free to adjust the sweetness by decreasing or increasing the amount of sugar to your liking. For an extra twist, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg or a splash of vanilla extract to enhance the flavor profile. Make sure to use ripe bananas, as their natural sweetness will shine through in the final jam.
Cooking Techniques
When making jams and preserves, it’s crucial to achieve the right consistency. The combination of the fruit pectin and the cooking time will help your jam set beautifully. Make sure to stir continuously during the thickening process to avoid any sticking or burning on the bottom of the saucepan. And don’t forget to sterilize your jars properly, as this will help your jam last longer and maintain its vibrant flavor.
FAQ
Can I use other fruits in this jam?
Absolutely! This recipe is quite versatile. You can mix in other fruits like strawberries or peaches for a unique twist on the flavor.
How long will the jam last in the refrigerator?
When stored properly, this jam can last up to 3 weeks in the refrigerator. For longer storage, consider canning it.
Is it okay to skip the rum?
If you prefer an alcohol-free version, you can replace the dark rum with extra lemon juice or a splash of vanilla extract for flavor.
Conclusion
Creating your own Drunken Monkey Banana Rum Jam is not just about preserving fruit, it’s about capturing memories and flavors that can be shared with loved ones. This jam embodies a spirit of fun and creativity, making breakfast or snacks a joyous occasion. Whip up a batch, and let its delightful aroma fill your kitchen. Once you taste that sweet, rum-infused goodness, you’ll never look at bananas the same way again!