Introduction
Get ready to indulge in a delightful treat that brings a burst of tropical flavor right into your kitchen! This Drunken Monkey Banana Rum Jam is a playful and sweet concoction that combines the natural sweetness of ripe bananas with the rich complexity of dark rum. Perfect for slathering on toast, drizzling over pancakes, or adding a spoonful to your favorite desserts, this jam is sure to elevate your breakfast or snack time. With its inviting aroma, smooth texture, and a hint of warmth from the rum, you’ll be coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 3 ripe bananas
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup dark rum
- 1 tablespoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 2 cups
Directions and Instructions
- In a large mixing bowl, peel and mash the ripe bananas until they reach a smooth consistency. The more ripe your bananas, the sweeter and more flavorful your jam will be!
- In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed bananas, granulated sugar, brown sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, dark rum, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently to help dissolve the sugars into the banana mixture, allowing the flavors to meld together for about 10 minutes.
- Once combined, increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, watching it carefully so it doesn’t bubble over.
- After reaching a boil, reduce the heat back to medium and let the jam simmer. Continue to stir occasionally until it thickens, which should take about 15-20 minutes.
- When you achieve the desired thickness, remove the saucepan from the heat. Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to clean jars.
- Once cooled, you can store your delicious banana rum jam in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer shelf life, process the jars in a hot water bath!
Notes or Tips
For an added touch of flavor, consider incorporating a pinch of nutmeg or even some chopped nuts for texture. Be sure to taste your jam during cooking to adjust the sweetness if needed; the ripeness of your bananas may influence the final flavor. If you prefer a smoother jam, blend the mixture before cooking!
Cooking Techniques
Mashing bananas is a simple task, but make sure they are fully ripe for the best flavor. When simmering, it’s essential to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning at the bottom. If you’re unfamiliar with the water bath process, it’s a great way to ensure a longer shelf life—just make sure your jars are sealed correctly!
FAQ
Can I use frozen bananas?
Yes! Just ensure they are thawed and drained of excess moisture before mashing.
Is the alcohol from the rum cooked off?
While some alcohol does evaporate during cooking, if you prefer to avoid alcohol altogether, you can substitute with additional lemon juice or an alcohol-free vanilla extract.
Can I use this jam in recipes?
Absolutely! This jam makes a great filling for cakes or pastries, and it can be used as a unique topping for ice cream.
Conclusion
This Drunken Monkey Banana Rum Jam is a whimsical and delicious way to preserve the flavor of summer all year long! Whether you enjoy it on breakfast staples or as a unique ingredient in your favorite recipes, it’s sure to bring a smile to your face. So gather your ingredients and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!