Mango Jam Recipe
Growing up in an Indian household, summers were synonymous with the sweet aroma of ripening mangoes. As a young girl, I would often find my mother in the kitchen, her hands sticky with the golden pulp, transforming the king of fruits into a sweet delicacy – mango jam. The thick, luscious texture, the rich golden hue, and the taste that was the right balance of sweet and tangy always made me eagerly await breakfast time. Today, as a housewife blogger who dabbles in food criticism, that same mango jam evokes feelings of nostalgia, reminding me of warm summer mornings and my mother’s culinary magic.
What is Mango Jam?
Mango jam is a sweet preserve made primarily from mango pulp, sugar, and often a touch of citric acid or lemon juice to balance out the sweetness. Native to the Indian subcontinent, this jam has grown in popularity worldwide, thanks to its unique taste and versatility. When spread over a slice of bread or paired with parathas (Indian flatbread), it brings out a burst of tropical flavors, reminiscent of sun-kissed orchards and the age-old culinary traditions of India.
Variations of Mango Jam
Mango-Chili Jam: A spicy twist to the traditional recipe, this version adds green chilies for an unexpected kick. Perfect for those who love a hint of heat with their sweet.
Mango-Ginger Jam: Infusing the jam with ginger gives it a spicy, aromatic undertone. It’s an excellent choice for those chilly winter mornings.
Mango-Cardamom Jam: Cardamom, a staple in Indian desserts, lends a fragrant and exotic touch to the jam, making it irresistible.
Nutrition – Mango Jam
While mango jam is undoubtedly a treat for the taste buds, it also comes packed with several health benefits:
Rich in Vitamins: Mangoes are a great source of vitamins A, C, and E. Regular consumption can help boost immunity and maintain healthy skin.
Aids Digestion: Thanks to the presence of digestive enzymes in mangoes, this jam can aid in breaking down proteins and promoting gut health.
Energy Booster: The natural sugars present in the jam provide a quick energy boost, making it an excellent choice for a morning meal.
Antioxidant Properties: Mangoes are known for their antioxidant properties, which help combat free radicals and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Mango jam, with its rich history and variations, is more than just a sweet spread. It’s a journey through time, a testament to India’s rich culinary heritage, and a treat that offers both taste and health benefits. Whether you’re trying it for the first time or reliving childhood memories, this jam is sure to leave an indelible mark on your palate.
Mango Jam Recipe
Ingredients
- 7 mangoes
- 2 lemon
- 600 grams sugar
Instructions
Preparation
- Assemble all ingredients together to avoid last minute rush.
- Peel the mangoes and cut them into smaller pieces.
- Squeeze juice from lemons and keep the lemon skin as well for use.
- Sterilize your Airtight Container / Jar as mentioned above.
- Place a plate in the fridge for testing.
Cooking
- Take a Cookpot and add chopped mangoes in it. Start heating them over low heat.
- Now, add the sugar in the Cookpot and mix well.
- Then, add juice of lemons and lemon skin as well in the Cookpot. Lemon skin adds natural preservative to the jam and it helps to set the jam.
- Cook on low heat for about 30 minutes or until jam is set.
- Remove from the heat and discard lemon skin.
- Now, drop a little jam onto the chilled plate (kept in fridge) and push your finger through it. It should wrinkle and looks like a jam. If it doesn't, boil for 2 mins more and test again.
- Stir well once it's cool down.
- Pour into the sterilized Jars and seal with the lids. Store in fridge once opened. It can last up to 6 months.
- Your Mango Jam is ready to enjoy!
Equipment Used for This Recipe
- Air Tight Container
- Serving Plate
Notes & Tips
- Choosing Mangoes: When choosing mangoes pick a mango variety with fewer fiber/strings and undamaged mango. If you use a mango variety which doesn't have fibers and only fruit flesh, cut off the fruit flesh from the seed core and discard the seed core. You only need to cook the seed core with the mangoes if the mangoes have fiber strings because you don't want those in your jam and they remain on the seed core like a layer of hair.
- Natural Preservative: Use only untreated/pesticide free lime/lemon because the whole lemon halves are used to cook up the jam as it provides natural pectin.
- Storage: Store jam in a dry, cool and dark place. Once you open the jars, store in the fridge. Only use sterilized jars when making any jam.
- Adding sugar: You can reduce the sugar in this mango recipe but you will need to consume the mango jam in the next 1-3 days. The sugar in the mango jam and the lemon help the jam to preserve for months if ripe fresh mangoes are used.
- Ingredients & Equipment: Find these Ingredients & Equipment at specialty food stores or online stores. For review of some stores, please refer to the Grocery Review Section on our Website.
Nutrition Information (Note: Approximate)
FAQs – Mango Jam Recipe
Is mango jam native to Indian cuisine?
Absolutely. Mango jam has its roots deeply embedded in the Indian culinary landscape. Known as the ‘king of fruits’, mangoes have been cultivated in the Indian subcontinent for thousands of years. The art of preserving mangoes in the form of a jam is an age-old tradition, passed down through generations. When you taste mango jam, you’re experiencing a piece of India’s rich food heritage.
How is mango jam different from mango chutney?
Mango jam is primarily a sweet preserve made from mango pulp and sugar. On the other hand, mango chutney is a mix of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors, often incorporating ingredients like spices, vinegar, and sometimes even garlic. While mango jam is typically spread on bread or parathas (Indian flatbread), chutney is more of a condiment, often paired with curries or snacks.
What variations of mango jam are popular in India?
India is a treasure trove of culinary variations, and mango jam is no exception. Some popular twists include Mango-Chili Jam for those who enjoy a spicy kick, Mango-Ginger Jam which adds an aromatic zing, and Mango-Cardamom Jam that infuses the sweetness with the fragrant notes of cardamom, a beloved spice in Indian desserts.
Why is mango jam often paired with parathas in India?
Parathas are a type of Indian flatbread that’s often enjoyed with various accompaniments. The richness of mango jam complements the slightly crispy, flaky texture of the paratha. It’s a balance of flavors and textures that’s deeply rooted in Indian breakfast traditions, offering a delightful mix of sweet and savory in every bite.
Are there any health benefits to consuming mango jam?
Indeed, mango jam isn’t just a treat for the taste buds; it’s packed with nutrition. Mangoes are rich in vitamins A, C, and E. They’re known to boost immunity, maintain healthy skin, aid in digestion, provide a quick energy boost, and have antioxidant properties. However, it’s essential to consume in moderation due to the added sugars.
Can mango jam be used in Indian desserts?
Certainly! Mango jam can be a versatile ingredient in various Indian desserts. Its rich, sweet flavor can enhance dishes like mango lassi (a yogurt-based drink), or be spread between layers of malpua (a type of pancake) for added sweetness. Its thick consistency also makes it a great filling for sweets like gujiyas during festivals.
How long can homemade mango jam be stored?
When stored correctly in a sterilized jar and kept in a cool, dark place, homemade mango jam can last up to a year. However, once opened, it’s best to refrigerate and consume within a month. Always use a clean spoon to prevent contamination.
Is there a specific type of mango best suited for making jam?
While you can make jam with various mango varieties, the Alphonso mango, native to India, is often favored for its rich pulp and minimal fibrous content. However, any ripe, sweet mango with good pulp can be used. The key is to balance the sweetness and tartness to achieve that perfect mango jam flavor.
Are there any alternatives to sugar in mango jam recipes?
Yes, if you’re looking to reduce sugar or prefer natural sweeteners, alternatives like honey or agave nectar can be used. It’s essential to adjust the quantity based on the sweetness of the mangoes and the chosen sweetener. Remember, sugar also acts as a preservative, so the shelf life might vary with alternatives.
Also See Also
———————————————————————————————————
Foodcazt (www.foodcazt.com) is a Food Magazine. We help you discover food. Benefit from our Recipes, Reviews, Food Guides & Articles. We uncover trends, especially for Indian and Asian Cuisines. Please follow us to learn more. Uncover recipes. Learn about trends. Unearth unique restaurants. Find what moves you. Discover what inspires others. We uncover trends, especially for Indian Cuisine and Asian Cuisine. It would mean the world to us, if you follow, like or subscribe on: YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram.
