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Old Fashioned Meyer Lemon Marmalade

Old Fashioned Meyer Lemon Marmalade - Treat Indulgently

Let me share a secret. Making your own Meyer lemon marmalade is not just about preserving fruit; it’s a journey back to simpler times. 
My grandmother used to make jars of marmalade every spring, filling our kitchen with an irresistible fragrance. It was as if that bright sunshine captured within the jars was meant to brighten dreary days.
This recipe for Meyer lemon marmalade takes you through a delightful and satisfying process. It’s easy, requires just a handful of ingredients, and the result? A jar of sunshine that lasts long after the lemons go out of season. 
But there’s more! Meyer lemons, with their sweeter taste and thinner skin, make for a more flavorful spread than your regular lemons.
Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 2 hours
Servings: 120
Course: Dessert
Cuisine: American
Calories: 14

Ingredients
  

  • 6 cups filtered water
  • 2 1/2 pounds fresh Meyer lemons, chopped should yield approximately 6 cups; add more if needed
  • 1 small piece of fresh ginger about 1 inch
  • 1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract adds warmth and depth
  • 6 cups organic cane sugar

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Lemons
  1. First thing's first. Wash the Meyer lemons thoroughly. Yes, we want to ensure they’re clean and ready to be transformed. Next, slice them thinly, removing any seeds you may find. Trust me; biting into a seed is like finding a fly in your soup—not fun! You can also chop them into small pieces if that's your style.
Step 2: Boil the Ingredients
  1. In a large pot, combine the chopped lemons with filtered water. Bring this to a boil. Once it reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This part is crucial as it helps soften the lemon rinds and release their natural pectin. You'll see the lemons become tender as they soak in the hot water.
Step 3: Add the Ginger
  1. At this point, it’s time to bring in the ginger. Add the finely grated ginger to the pot. Mix it well. The smell is going to be incredible. Take a moment and inhale deeply. That's the scent of magic!
Step 4: Sweeten the Mix
  1. Now, here’s where the fun really begins. Gradually add in the organic cane sugar, stirring until it dissolves completely. This additional step will help to create a lovely syrup around your lemons as everything cooks down.
Step 5: Cook Until Set
  1. Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil again. You’ll want to keep stirring occasionally, making sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. After about an hour, you should notice the marmalade thickening.
    To test if it has set properly, place a spoonful on a chilled plate and put it in the freezer for a few minutes. Run your finger through it—if it holds its shape and doesn't run back together, it’s ready for the next step.
Step 6: Jar and Process
  1. Prepare your jars by sterilizing them. I usually place them in boiling water for about 10 minutes. Once they're ready, pour the hot marmalade into the jars, leaving about a quarter-inch space at the top. Seal them tightly. 
    You can process these jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to make them shelf-stable.

Notes

  • Meyer Lemons
    The key ingredient here. These lemons are sweeter than their traditional counterparts, making them perfect for marmalade.
  • Fresh Ginger
    Its zing complements the tartness of the lemons, providing a depth of flavor.
  • Organic Cane Sugar
    This sweetener is preferred for its purity and ability to create a deliciously syrupy texture.