I would like to make my own jam – how do I select the best fruit for jam making, i.e. should it be overripe, underripe, colour etc?
High quality fruit is the most important ingredient in making fresh jams and marmalades. Look out for fruit which is sufficiently ripe, has an even consistency and is free of blemishes (no spots, or bruises) – if you wouldn’t eat the fruit yourself, then don’t use it. Using fresh fruit which is in peak season is also important for a fresh, fruity taste and a beautiful jam colour and texture. Please ensure that fruit is not overripe however, as the lack of pectin in the fruit may make it harder for the jam to set. If your favourite fruit is not in season, frozen fruit is a great alternative (particularly for berries). See our Australian Seasonal Produce chart for a guide to peak seasons for a variety of fruits.
