Description
A simple, flexible homemade mango jam made with just three ingredients: ripe mangoes, sugar, and lemon juice. This recipe relies on the natural pectin in the fruit for a glossy, spreadable texture without the need for commercial pectin.
Ingredients
Scale
- 3 to 4 large ripe mangoes (yielding approx. 4 cups diced fruit)
- 2 to 3 cups granulated white sugar (adjust based on mango sweetness)
- 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Wash, peel, and dice the mangoes into small, uniform pieces (1/2 to 1 inch). Place them in a heavy-bottomed large pot.
- Add the granulated sugar and fresh lemon juice to the diced mangoes. Stir gently to combine.
- Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 10-15 minutes to macerate and draw out natural juices.
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and stir occasionally until the mixture begins to bubble and boil.
- Reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface.
- Simmer the jam for 30-45 minutes, stirring every 5-10 minutes to prevent burning. The mixture will thicken and darken.
- Perform the gel test: Place a teaspoon of hot jam on a cold plate. If it wrinkles and holds its shape after 30 seconds, it is ready. Target temperature is 220°F (104°C).
- Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes. Ladle into sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Wipe rims clean, seal with lids and bands, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes for shelf stability, or store in the refrigerator.
Notes
Ensure mangoes are ripe and free of fibrous strings. Sugar acts as a preservative; reducing it may affect setting and shelf life. The jam will thicken further as it cools. For a spicy variation, add chili or cayenne. For a floral note, add vanilla bean or edible flowers.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Condiments
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 55
- Sugar: 13
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 0.5
- Protein: 0.2
Keywords: mango jam, homemade jam, no pectin, easy jam recipe, fruit preserve, summer recipes, gluten-free, dairy-free