Every time I make Amish Rhubarb Jam, I’m flooded with memories of warm summer afternoons spent in my grandmother’s kitchen. The tangy scent of rhubarb bubbling away on the stove takes me back to those days, stirring the pot while she shared stories and wisdom with me. It’s such a simple pleasure that brings families together. You know, there’s something magical about homemade jam. The process is easy, but the payoff is delightful. Once you spread it over toast or a warm biscuit, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort too! I can already picture you in your cozy kitchen, just like I was in mine, creating something special for your loved ones.
Now, let’s dive into making this delicious Amish Rhubarb Jam together! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to whip up, and I promise it’ll be worth every minute spent in your kitchen.
How to make Amish Rhubarb Jam
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this fruity delight:
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Rhubarb (diced) | 4 cups |
| Sugar | 4 cups (or 2 cups for less sweetness) |
| Crushed pineapple (14-ounce can) | 1 small can |
| Cherry jello | 3 ounce box |
I love using fresh rhubarb from my garden if I can! Nothing tastes better than fresh ingredients straight from the soil. You can also adjust the sugar to your taste; some days I just want a little less sweetness, and that’s perfectly fine!
Cooking Steps
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Prepare the Rhubarb: Begin by washing and dicing your rhubarb. The sweet and slightly tart flavor is what makes this jam so special. When I do this part, I can feel the anticipation building!
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Cook the Rhubarb and Sugar: In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the diced rhubarb and sugar. Over medium heat, let them cook together for about 12 minutes. You’ll want to stir it occasionally to prevent it from sticking. Trust me, this is when the kitchen starts to smell amazing!
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Add Pineapple: After the rhubarb has softened and mixed beautifully with the sugar, it’s time to pour in the crushed pineapple. Stir well and let this cook for another 3 minutes. I love the tropical twist the pineapple brings!
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Mix in the Jello: Now for the fun part! Take your cherry jello and sprinkle it over the pot. Stir it in until it’s fully dissolved. The bright color just makes me smile!
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Pour into Jars: Carefully ladle the hot mixture into sterilized jars. Fill them up to about a quarter-inch from the top. Make sure to seal them properly; I always give a little twist to ensure they’re tight.
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Let it Cool: Set the jars aside to cool completely. You’ll hear that satisfying popping sound as they seal up! It’s a beautiful sound of a job well done.
When I made this jam for my family last summer, they couldn’t stop talking about it! I think we went through at least three jars within a month. It’s one of those recipes that brings people together.
Why I Love Making This Dish
Amish Rhubarb Jam holds a special place in my heart. Growing up, my grandmother would make it every summer, and I remember the process vividly. It felt like a special event. It’s so simple, yet so packed with flavor. Plus, it’s wonderful to enjoy something homemade. You don’t find that in store-bought jams!
What You’ll Need
You’ll need a few tools for this recipe:
- A large heavy-bottomed pot
- Stirring spoon
- Sterilized glass jars with lids
- A ladle for pouring your jam into the jars
Having the right tools on hand makes the process even smoother, and it feels so satisfying.
Step-by-Step Guide
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Preheat your kitchen: While you don’t need to preheat anything, having your kitchen warm and inviting makes everything feel better.
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Get your ingredients ready: Dice the rhubarb, measure out the sugar, and have your pineapple and jello within reach. Trust me, having everything prepped just makes the cooking seamless!
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Combine and cook: Follow the steps carefully—this part is where the magic happens.
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Enjoy the aromas: As the mixture cooks, take a moment to enjoy the smells filling your kitchen. This is what makes cooking so special.
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Check your jars: Make sure your jars are clean and ready to go before you finish cooking. It’s very important for preserving!
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Seal and store: After the jam cools, store it in a cool, dark place. It’s like a little treasure waiting to be discovered.
Tips for Perfect Results
- Use sharp, fresh rhubarb for the best flavor. The quality of your ingredients truly makes a difference.
- If you want a bit of extra zing, you can add a squeeze of lemon juice; it really enhances the flavor!
- Make sure to taste the mixture before sealing it up. If you love it, then it’s ready to jar!
Serving Suggestions and Sides
Amish Rhubarb Jam is perfect as a spread on warm toast, biscuits, or scones. You can also use it as a filling in pastries or as a sweet topping for yogurt. My favorite way to enjoy it is on a warm slice of homemade buttered bread. Absolute heaven!
Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which is rare in my house!), store them in the refrigerator. It’ll last for a couple of weeks, but I bet your family will finish it long before then! When reheating, you can spread it on toast straight from the fridge. If it’s too stiff, just warm it slightly in the microwave.
FAQ Section
Can I use frozen rhubarb?
You can! Just make sure to thaw and drain any extra moisture before using it. I have tried this before when I’ve been short on fresh rhubarb, and it works well!
How do I know if my jam has set?
A good way to check is to put a spoonful of your jam on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it holds its shape, you’re good to go!
Can I use other types of fruit?
Absolutely! You can mix in strawberries or even blueberries for a different flavor. I love experimenting!
How long does the jam last?
If stored properly, it can last up to a year in a cool, dark place. Just watch out for any signs of spoilage before using!
In conclusion, making Amish Rhubarb Jam is not just about creating something delicious; it’s about the joys of cooking and creating memories with family. I’m excited for you to try this recipe at home. It has brought so much happiness to my table, and I know it will do the same for yours. So gather your ingredients, find a cozy spot in your kitchen, and let’s make this jam together! I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you!