Best Easy Orange Marmalade Recipe: A Jamie Oliver Delight
When it comes to orange marmalade, nobody does it quite like Jamie Oliver. His recipes are known for their simplicity, flavor, and unique twists. If you’re looking for an easy yet delicious orange marmalade recipe that will impress your family and friends, look no further. Here, we present to you Jamie Oliver’s best orange marmalade recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 large oranges
– 2 lemons
– 2.2 lbs (1 kg) caster sugar
– 2 pints (1.2 liters) water
Instructions:
1. Start by washing the oranges and lemons thoroughly, as you will be using the peel in this recipe. Cut them in half and squeeze out the juice. Set aside.
2. Using a sharp knife, carefully remove the peel from the oranges and lemons. Try to remove as much pith as possible, as it can make the marmalade bitter. Slice the peel into thin strips or chunks, according to your preference.
3. In a large saucepan, combine the water, sugar, juice, and peel. Stir well until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Check the consistency of the marmalade by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when touched, it is ready. If not, continue simmering for another 15-30 minutes and test again.
6. Once the marmalade is ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool slightly.
7. Sterilize your jars by washing them in hot, soapy water, then rinsing and drying them thoroughly. Place the jars in a preheated oven at 212°F (100°C) for about 15 minutes.
8. Carefully pour the hot marmalade into the warm jars, leaving a small headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Now, let’s address some common questions about this recipe:
1. Can I use different citrus fruits in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different combinations of oranges, lemons, and even grapefruits to create your own unique marmalade flavor.
2. How long does this marmalade last?
If stored properly, this marmalade can last up to a year. Once opened, it should be consumed within a month and refrigerated.
3. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?
While the sugar is necessary for the preservation and texture of the marmalade, you can adjust the sweetness according to your preference. However, reducing the amount of sugar too much may affect the shelf life and set of the marmalade.
4. Can I use a different type of sugar?
Caster sugar is recommended for this recipe as it dissolves easily and helps achieve the desired consistency. However, you can experiment with other types of sugar, such as granulated or brown sugar, if desired.
5. How can I use orange marmalade besides spreading it on toast?
Orange marmalade is incredibly versatile. You can use it as a glaze for meats, a topping for desserts, a filling for cakes, or even as a marinade for chicken or salmon.
6. Can I add spices or herbs to the marmalade?
Absolutely! Feel free to add a cinnamon stick, a few cloves, or even some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to infuse the marmalade with additional flavors.
7. Can I double or halve the recipe?
Yes, you can easily adjust the quantities of the ingredients to make more or less marmalade. Just remember to adjust the cooking time accordingly.
Now that you have the recipe and answers to your questions, it’s time to get cooking and enjoy the delightful flavors of Jamie Oliver’s easy orange marmalade.