Rhubarb and Banana Jam

This delightful rhubarb and banana jam combines the tangy taste of rhubarb with the sweet, tropical flavors of bananas for a unique blend that's sure to impress. Perfect for breakfast spreads, afternoon tea, or even dessert toppings, this jam offers a different approach to traditional fruit preserves. With a beautifully vibrant color and a fragrant aroma, it's as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the palate. The fruit combination creates a perfect harmony of flavors—where the acidity of rhubarb is mellowed by the sweetness of bananas, providing a luscious texture. Easy to prepare, you can have jars of this scrumptious treat ready in no time. The recipe not only complements a variety of breads but also pairs well with cheese and pastries, adding an intriguing zest to any dish. Ideal for gifting or enjoying at home, this homemade jam is a great way to make the most of seasonal produce. Whether you're a jam-making enthusiast or a beginner looking for an easy recipe, this one is sure to become a favorite. Get ready to savor the delightful fusion of flavors in every jar.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Rhubarb Stalks - 4 cups
Bananas - 2 cups (approximately 3 large bananas)
Sugar - 3 cups
Water - 1 cup

Preparation Time

Total Time: 60 minutes
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

Prepare the Rhubarb and Bananas: Clean the rhubarb and chop it into small pieces. Peel the bananas and slice them into rounds.
Cook the Rhubarb: In a large pot, combine the rhubarb and water. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently until the rhubarb breaks down and becomes soft, about 10-15 minutes.
Blend the Bananas: While the rhubarb is cooking, place the banana slices in a blender. Blend until smooth to create a banana puree.
Combine Ingredients: Add the banana puree to the rhubarb mixture in the pot. Stir to combine seamlessly.
Add Sugar: Gradually mix in the sugar. Stir constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely into the fruit mixture.
Simmer the Jam: Lower the heat and let the mixture simmer. Cook for another 20-25 minutes until the jam thickens.
Skim the Foam: As the jam simmers, a small amount of foam may form on the surface. Use a spoon to skim this off carefully to ensure a clearer jam.
Test the Jam's Consistency: To test if the jam is set, place a small amount on a chilled plate. Allow it to cool for a few seconds and then push it with your finger. If it wrinkles, it's done.
Jar the Jam: Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, pour it into sterilized jars while still hot. Leave a little space at the top for expansion.
Seal the Jars: Secure the jars with lids and turn them upside down for 5 minutes to create a seal, then flip them back.
Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Enjoy and Share: Once set, enjoy the jam over toast, pastries, or even in yogurt. Share with family and friends!

Tips

For a thicker consistency, allow the jam to cook longer.
You can add a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavors.
Use ripe bananas for a sweeter taste.
If preferred, you can reduce the sugar for a more tart jam.

Nutrition

Calories: 50 per tablespoon
Total Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 13g
Protein: 0g

Variations

Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cinnamon or ginger for a warm spice.
Berry Mix: Include strawberries or raspberries for additional flavor.
Sugar-Free: Substitute sugar with honey or a sugar-free sweetener.

Serving Suggestions

Spread generously on fresh bread or croissants.
Pair with creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert.
Use as a topping for vanilla ice cream or pancakes.

Best Places

The Jar House Café - Offers a variety of homemade jams with fresh ingredients. Location: 123 Berry Lane, London, England.
Sweet Spoon Bistro - Known for unique jam-infused breakfasts. Location: 456 Jam Street, New York, USA.
Gourmet Grind - Features artisanal jams with local produce. Location: 789 Rhubarb Road, Melbourne, Australia.
Flavors of Nature - Popular spot for organic jams and spreads. Location: 321 Banana Blvd, Vancouver, Canada.
Taste of the Season - Specializes in seasonal fruit jams. Location: 654 Sugar Avenue, Paris, France.
Harvest Delight Café - Offers farm-to-table jam varieties. Location: 987 Fruit Park, Wellington, New Zealand.
Jam Session Deli - Known for creative flavor combinations. Location: 234 Spread Street, Edinburgh, Scotland.
The Preserve Loft - Traditional jams with modern twists. Location: 567 Preserve Drive, Cape Town, South Africa.
Fruit Fusion - For bold and inventive jam flavors. Location: 890 Mixed Lane, Tokyo, Japan.
Flavor Frames - Cozy café with homemade jams on toast. Location: 123 Preserve Plaza, Dublin, Ireland.