....I hope you like Jamming too!...

We only have a tiny plum tree in our garden, but this year I managed to pick this basket full of fruits from just two of its branches. There is still plenty more to harvest for pies, crumbles and for a tasty snack at any time....

I decided to use this bounty to make some plum jam.
This recipe is less sweet than many jams, as it uses a lot less sugar per pound of fruit, so it retains a slight tang and is full of flavour:

1 lb plums
12oz sugar
(use no water if fruit is ripe (1/8 pint if under-ripe.))
Cooking time: 20 - 25 minutes.

Simmer the plums with the water, if used, until fruit is soft.

Add sugar and stir until dissolved.

Boil rapidly until set.

Fill jars.

I used 4lbs of plums (plus additional sugar), which made 6 jars of jam and the china dish full......and it's delicious!

I have always loved to see homemade jams and chutneys displayed in the country kitchen; there is something comforting and homely about it.

I used paper napkins to decorate the jam jar lids, secured with a loop of narrow elastic. I then trimmed the napkins to shape.

...Think I shall take the girls blackberry picking at the weekend! This was so easy and great fun....I feel a production line coming on....!