What is the difference between jam & preserves?
A. Here are some helpful definitions: Jelly- made from fruit juice, extracted and cooked until the “jell point” is reached. Proper amounts of fruit juice, pectin, acid, and sugar are needed to make a good jelly. Jam- is a combination of crushed or chopped fruit, along with sugar, pectin, and lemon juice, cooked to a smooth consistency. Preserves- similar to jam, except that whole fruits or large pieces are used and retain their shape. The syrup surrounding the fruit should be bright & clear, and have a good spreading consistency. Conserves- are like jams, except two or more fruits are cooked together. Often contain raisins or nuts. Marmalade- is a soft jelly, usually containing thin, suspended pieces of citrus peel or fruit. Fruit Butter- is fruit purees that are combined with sugar, lemon juice, and spices and cooked down slowly to a smooth spreading consistency.
