What You’ll Need
- 6 ripe persimmons
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1 tablespoon chia seeds
- 1/4 cup water
- Stevia or any other sugar substitute of your choice
- Jam jars for storage
Step 1: Prepare the Persimmons
Start by washing the persimmons thoroughly. Peel the skins and remove any seeds or stems. Cut the persimmons into small chunks and place them in a bowl.
Step 2: Cook the Persimmons
Add the persimmon chunks, lemon juice, and water to a saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally until the persimmons turn soft and mushy. This should take about 10-15 minutes.
Step 3: Mash the Persimmons
Using a potato masher or a fork, mash the cooked persimmons until you achieve a smooth consistency. If you prefer a chunky texture, leave some small pieces of fruit in the mixture.
Step 4: Sweeten the Jam
Add your desired amount of sugar substitute (such as stevia) to the mashed persimmons. Start with a small quantity and taste as you go to adjust the sweetness according to your preference. Remember, you can always add more sweetener later if needed.
Step 5: Add Chia Seeds and Vanilla
Stir in the chia seeds and vanilla extract into the sweetened persimmon mixture. Chia seeds act as a natural thickener and will give your jam a delightful texture. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes to allow the chia seeds to expand.
Step 6: Jar and Store
Transfer the jam into clean, sterilized jars. Ensure the lids are tightly sealed. Let the jam cool completely before refrigerating. The jam will thicken further as it cools.
Step 7: Enjoy!
Spread your homemade sugar-free persimmon jam on toast, crackers, or use it as a filling in pastries. Share your delicious creation with family and friends, and enjoy the guilt-free pleasure of homemade jam!
Now that you know how to make sugar-free persimmon jam, you can indulge in the flavors of persimmons while taking care of your health. Experiment with different variations by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a unique twist. Happy jam-making!