Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe

Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe is a delightful way to capture the essence of summer in a jar. This unique jam combines sweet peach flavors with the unexpected addition of zucchini and pineapple, making it a refreshing and delicious spread for toast, muffins, or even as a topping for desserts. Perfect for family gatherings, picnics, or as homemade gifts, this jam is sure to become a new favorite. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up that fresh summer zucchini from your garden!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Unique flavor combination: The blend of peaches and zucchini creates a sweet and savory jam that stands out.
• Easy to make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, anyone can whip up this delightful jam.
• Versatile usage: Use it on breakfast items like toast or pancakes, or as a glaze for meats and desserts.
• Great for gifts: Share the joy of homemade goodness by gifting jars to friends and family.
• Long shelf life: Properly sealed jars can last up to two years, perfect for enjoying throughout the year.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Canning jars (half-pint recommended)
• Large pot
• Potato masher (if using chunks)
• Ladle
• Water bath canner

Importance of Each Tool

• Canning jars: These are crucial for storing your jam safely while ensuring a proper seal.
• Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to boil the ingredients evenly without overflow.
• Potato masher: If you’re using whole pineapple chunks, this tool helps achieve a smoother consistency in your jam.

Ingredients

Sweet peach flavored jam filled with pineapple and zucchini. A new family favorite jam recipe. Bonus… we can use up all that fresh summer zucchini!

For the Base

• 6 cups (20-26oz) peeled and shredded zucchini (see notes)
• 20 oz can pineapple in juice (use any canned pineapple; crush if using chunks)

For Flavoring

• 1 (1.75 oz) box Sure-Jell or generic equivalent
• 5 cups (1000 g) sugar
• 6 oz box Peach flavored Jell-o

How to Make Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Zucchini and Pineapple

1. In a large pot, bring the shredded zucchini and canned pineapple juice to a boil.
2. Cook until the zucchini becomes soft, about 3-5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Sure-Jell

1. Stir in the Sure-Jell once the mixture is boiling.
2. Bring it back to a full rolling boil.

Step 3: Incorporate Sugar and Pineapple

1. Add sugar along with crushed pineapple into the boiling mixture.
2. Boil again for 5 minutes while stirring constantly.

Step 4: Mix in Peach Jell-O

1. Remove the pot from heat.
2. Stir in the peach flavored Jell-O for 1-2 minutes until fully dissolved.

Step 5: Jar Up Your Jam

1. Pour the mixture into sterilized half-pint jars.
2. Clean the rims of each jar carefully to ensure a proper seal before adding lids.

Step 6: Process Your Jars

1. Process jars using a water bath method for 20 minutes.
2. Once done, remove from water and allow them to rest for 24 hours.

Step 7: Check Seals

1. After resting, press down on each lid’s center; if it clicks back, it did not seal properly—refer to notes if this happens.

Step 8: Storage Instructions

Store your Peach Zucchini Jam in a cool dry place for up to two years! Once opened, keep refrigerated.

This Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to enjoy summer flavors all year long!

How to Serve Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe

Peach zucchini jam is a delightful treat that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re spreading it on toast or using it as a topping, this jam adds a sweet and fruity flavor to your meals.

On Toast

• Spread a generous layer of peach zucchini jam on warm toast for a delicious breakfast or snack.

With Cheese

• Serve the jam alongside a cheese platter. It pairs well with cream cheese or brie for a perfect balance of flavors.

In Yogurt

• Stir some jam into your morning yogurt for added sweetness and texture. This combination is great for a healthy start to your day.

As a Glaze

• Use peach zucchini jam as a glaze for grilled meats or roasted vegetables. The sweetness enhances the savory flavors beautifully.

In Desserts

• Incorporate the jam into desserts like cakes or pastries for a fruity twist. It can also be drizzled over ice cream for an indulgent treat.

How to Perfect Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe

Creating the perfect peach zucchini jam is easy with these simple tips.

• Choose fresh zucchini: Fresh, tender zucchini yields the best texture and flavor in your jam.
• Sterilize jars properly: Ensuring your jars are clean helps keep the jam safe and extends its shelf life.
• Adjust sweetness: Feel free to modify the sugar amount according to your taste preference; just remember it may affect the consistency.
• Use ripe peaches: Ripe peaches will enhance the overall flavor of your jam, making it sweeter and more aromatic.
• Stir well: Make sure to stir the mixture thoroughly after adding Jell-O to avoid clumps.
• Test sealing: Always check that each jar has sealed properly after processing to ensure freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe

Pairing side dishes with peach zucchini jam can elevate your meals. Here are some suggestions that complement its sweet flavor perfectly.

1. Grilled Chicken: The sweetness of the jam contrasts beautifully with savory grilled chicken, making for a delightful dish.
2. Pork Chops: Use peach zucchini jam as a glaze on pork chops before grilling—it’s sure to impress!
3. Cream Cheese Dip: Blend cream cheese and peach zucchini jam for an easy dip that pairs wonderfully with crackers.
4. Savory Scones: Serve warm scones with a dollop of this jam for brunch; they make an excellent sweet-savory combination.
5. Cheese Quesadilla: Add some peach zucchini jam inside a quesadilla for a unique twist on this classic dish.
6. Roasted Vegetables: Drizzle some jam over roasted Brussels sprouts or carrots before serving, adding sweetness to their earthy flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe, it’s essential to avoid common pitfalls that could affect the taste and texture of your jam.

• Bold mismeasuring ingredients: Ensure you measure your zucchini and sugar accurately. Too much or too little can alter the consistency and sweetness.
• Bold neglecting jar preparation: Always sterilize your jars before pouring in the jam. Any residue or dirt can prevent proper sealing.
• Bold skipping the boiling process: Do not skip boiling the zucchini and pineapple juice adequately. This step helps soften the zucchini for better texture.
• Bold ignoring cooling time: Allow the jars to cool completely after processing. This ensures a proper seal and prolongs shelf life.
• Bold using unripe fruit: Make sure your peaches are ripe for optimal flavor. Unripe fruit can lead to a bland jam.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in clean, sterilized jars with tight lids.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 months after opening.

Freezing Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or jars that allow expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 years without losing quality.

Reheating Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe

• Bold Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Bold Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe container for short intervals, stirring frequently.
• Bold Stovetop: Warm gently on low heat while stirring to prevent burning.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe:

What is the best way to prepare zucchini for this jam?

You should peel and shred the zucchini before adding it to your mixture. This helps it blend well and contributes to a smoother texture.

How long does Peach Zucchini Jam last?

If sealed properly, your Peach Zucchini Jam can last up to 2 years when stored in a cool, dry place. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3 months.

Can I use other fruits in this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with other fruits like mango or apricot for different flavors while maintaining the same basic recipe structure.

What if my jam didn’t set properly?

If your jam doesn’t set, you can reprocess it by adding more Sure-Jell or cooking it longer until it reaches the desired consistency.

What is the best way to enjoy Peach Zucchini Jam?

This versatile jam is delicious on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.

Final Thoughts

The Peach Zucchini Jam Recipe is not only a delightful way to enjoy summer flavors but also a clever method to use up extra zucchini. Feel free to customize by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra twist. Give it a try, and you’ll find it becomes a family favorite!