Homemade Chunky Peach Ginger Preserves
A cozy, chunky peach preserve with a zesty ginger twist, perfect for spreading on toast or dolloping into yogurt for a comforting start to your day.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: About 4 cups (approximately 12 servings of 2 tablespoons each) 1x
- Category: Preserves / Condiment
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 cups ripe peaches (about 6–7 medium peaches), peeled and cut into chunks
- 2 tablespoons fresh ginger root, finely grated or minced
- 1 cup granulated sugar (200 grams)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 cup water (60 ml)
Instructions
- Prepare the peaches by washing, peeling, and chopping into roughly 1/2-inch chunks. Blanch peaches in boiling water for 30 seconds, then plunge into ice water to remove skins easily. This takes about 15 minutes.
- Grate 2 tablespoons of fresh ginger using a microplane or fine grater, avoiding the woody core.
- In a large heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine peach chunks, grated ginger, sugar, lemon juice, and water. Stir gently to mix evenly.
- Place the pan over medium heat and bring to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 40-45 minutes, stirring every 5 minutes to prevent sticking and help peaches break down gradually. Aim for tender peaches that keep their shape.
- Test the preserves by spooning a bit onto a chilled plate and tilting it. If it wrinkles slightly and holds shape, it is set; if not, simmer a few minutes longer.
- Remove from heat and let cool for 10 minutes. Spoon chunky preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace. Seal with lids while still warm.
- Let jars cool completely at room temperature, then refrigerate for up to 3 weeks or freeze for longer storage. Preserves will thicken as they cool.
Notes
Peel peaches for smoother texture using blanch-and-shock method. Fresh grated ginger is essential for bright flavor; avoid powdered ginger. Stir gently and regularly to prevent scorching. Test setting on a chilled plate. Jar preserves while warm for better sealing. Frozen peaches can be used but expect softer texture. Adjust sugar based on peach sweetness. Variations include adding spices like cinnamon or cayenne, or swapping sugar for honey or maple syrup.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 2 tablespoons
- Calories: 70
- Sugar: 15
- Fat: 0.2
- Carbohydrates: 18
- Fiber: 1
- Protein: 0.3
Keywords: peach preserves, ginger preserves, homemade jam, chunky peach jam, peach ginger spread, cozy breakfast, easy preserves