Apricot Jam with Thyme and Orange: A Perfectly Sweet and Aromatic Treat

There’s something incredibly satisfying about making your own jam at home. Not only do you have full control over the ingredients, but the smell of freshly made jam wafting through your kitchen is unmatched. If you’re a fan of apricots, thyme, and citrus, this apricot jam with thyme and orange recipe is for you. It takes a classic apricot jam to a whole new level by adding the herbal note of thyme and the zesty freshness of orange.

This jam combines the rich sweetness of ripe apricots with the aromatic depth of fresh thyme and the bright, zesty flavor of orange. It's perfect for spreading on toast, drizzling over pancakes, or adding a little sunshine to your desserts. Let’s dive into the steps of how to create this delightful jam.

Ingredients for Apricot Jam with Thyme and Orange

To make apricot jam with thyme and orange, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 2 pounds of ripe apricots (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup of sugar (or more, depending on your sweetness preference)
• 1/4 cup of freshly squeezed orange juice
• 1 tablespoon of orange zest
• 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon of dried thyme)

Optional:

• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice (for an extra tang)
• 1/2 teaspoon of ground ginger (for a hint of warmth)
• 1-2 tablespoons of honey (to adjust sweetness)

Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Apricot Jam with Thyme and Orange

Step 1: Prepare the Apricots

Start by washing your apricots thoroughly. Cut them in half and remove the pits. Slice the apricot halves into smaller pieces for faster cooking and easier jam consistency. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can puree the apricots in a blender or food processor.

Step 2: Infuse the Syrup with Thyme and Orange

In a large pot, combine the chopped apricots, orange juice, and orange zest. Place the fresh thyme sprigs into the pot, and bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat. This allows the thyme to infuse its herbaceous flavor into the fruit and citrus mixture.

Step 3: Add Sugar and Simmer

Once the apricot mixture starts to simmer, add the sugar, stirring well to dissolve it. If you like your jam to be less sweet, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. Continue to simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice the jam begin to thicken as the liquid reduces.

Step 4: Test the Jam’s Consistency

To test whether the jam has reached the right consistency, take a small spoonful of the jam and place it on a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute, then tilt the plate. If the jam runs off slowly and forms a gel-like texture, it’s ready. If it’s too runny, continue simmering for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Remove the Thyme Sprigs and Final Adjustments

Once the jam has thickened to your desired consistency, remove the thyme sprigs from the pot. For an extra boost of flavor, you can stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice for brightness and a pinch of ground ginger for warmth. Taste the jam and adjust the sweetness if needed.

Step 6: Can or Store the Jam

Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Seal the jars and allow them to cool to room temperature. You can store your jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or can the jam using a hot water bath method for long-term storage.

Tips for Perfect Apricot Jam with Thyme and Orange

1. Selecting Apricots: Choose ripe apricots for the best flavor. Overripe apricots will make your jam overly sweet and too runny. Firm, ripe apricots are ideal.

2. Infusing Thyme: Be mindful of how long you leave the thyme in the jam. If you prefer a lighter herbal note, remove it after 20 minutes. If you want a more pronounced flavor, let it steep longer but be careful not to overpower the apricot flavor.

3. Sweetness Adjustment: If you prefer a lower-sugar version of this jam, you can substitute some of the sugar with honey or stevia, keeping in mind that stevia can affect the consistency of the jam.

4. Adding Flavor Variations: This recipe is highly versatile. Try adding a pinch of cinnamon or ground cloves for added warmth. A dash of vanilla extract can also enhance the sweetness.

5. Storing Jam: To store your jam for months, use a water bath canning method. After sealing the jars, process them in boiling water for 10 minutes to ensure they’re safely preserved.

Serving Suggestions for Apricot Jam with Thyme and Orange

This apricot jam with thyme and orange can be used in many ways. Here are a few suggestions:

• Spread it on toast, scones, or croissants for a delightful breakfast or afternoon tea.
• Drizzle it over pancakes or waffles for a zesty topping.
• Add it as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.
• Use it in savory dishes, such as glazes for meats, especially roasted chicken or pork.

Why You Should Try This Recipe

This apricot jam is the perfect blend of sweet, citrusy, and herbal flavors. It’s versatile, easy to make, and can elevate any dish with its unique, bright notes. Whether you’re an experienced jam maker or new to the craft, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic fruit preserve. The combination of thyme and orange adds complexity to the apricot jam, making it ideal for both sweet and savory applications.

Enjoy your homemade apricot jam with thyme and orange in a variety of ways, and don’t forget to share it with friends and family for an extra special touch to any meal.