Growing up, my grandma’s kitchen was a magical place, filled with the comforting aromas of homemade jams and preserves. One of my fondest memories is the day she taught me how to make her signature Purple Sweet Potato Jam. The vibrant hue and sweet, velvety texture of that jam have been etched in my mind ever since. Whenever I indulge in a spoonful, it transports me back to those cozy afternoons spent learning the secrets of her craft.
Table of Contents
Why This Purple Sweet Potato Jam Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Purple Sweet Potato Jam
This recipe for Purple Sweet Potato Jam is truly special. Not only does it yield a beautifully vibrant and flavorful preserve, but it also captures the essence of my grandmother’s recipe. The secret lies in the careful selection and preparation of the purple sweet potatoes, which lend a natural sweetness and richness to the jam. By following this recipe, you’ll be able to create a batch of Purple Sweet Potato Jam that will quickly become a staple in your household – just like it did in mine.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delectable Purple Sweet Potato Jam, you’ll need:
- 2 pounds purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
These simple, yet carefully chosen ingredients come together to create a jam that is both unique and irresistible. This recipe yields 6 servings, with each serving being 2 tablespoons.
Step-by-Step Purple Sweet Potato Jam Instructions
Preparing Your Purple Sweet Potato Jam
This recipe takes 45 minutes total – 15 minutes for prep and 30 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a large saucepan, a potato masher or fork, and a wooden spoon to make this delicious jam.
1- Begin by peeling and dicing the purple sweet potatoes into 1-inch cubes, using the exact 2-pound quantity from the ingredient list.
2- In a large saucepan, combine the diced purple sweet potatoes, 1 cup of granulated sugar, and 1/2 cup of water. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
3- Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sweet potatoes are very soft and the liquid has thickened.
4- After 30 minutes, the jam should have a thick, velvety consistency. Use a potato masher or fork to mash the sweet potatoes until the desired texture is achieved.
5- Stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, ensuring the flavors are evenly distributed.
6- Remove the pan from the heat and allow the Purple Sweet Potato Jam to cool completely before transferring it to jars or an airtight container.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Purple Sweet Potato Jam turns out perfectly, here are a few pro tips:
- Choose firm, vibrant purple sweet potatoes for the best color and flavor.
- Be patient during the simmering process – the longer the jam cooks, the thicker and more concentrated the flavor will become.
- Adjust the sweetness to your liking by adding a bit more or less sugar, depending on the natural sweetness of your sweet potatoes.
- Experiment with different spices, like ginger or nutmeg, to add depth and complexity to the jam.
Serving and Storing Your Purple Sweet Potato Jam
Perfect Pairings for Purple Sweet Potato Jam
This Purple Sweet Potato Jam is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Spread it on toast, scones, or biscuits for a delightful breakfast or snack. It also makes a wonderful topping for pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream. Each 2-tablespoon serving of this recipe is the perfect accompaniment to your favorite morning or afternoon treats.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
To store your homemade Purple Sweet Potato Jam, transfer it to an airtight container or sterilized jars and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks. For longer-term storage, the jam can be frozen for up to 6 months. When ready to use, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
This recipe is also great for meal prepping. You can make a batch ahead of time and have it on hand for a quick and delicious addition to your meals throughout the week.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Purple Sweet Potato Jam
Creative Purple Sweet Potato Jam Variations
While this classic Purple Sweet Potato Jam is a true delight, you can also experiment with different flavors and twists. Try adding a splash of orange juice or a teaspoon of orange zest for a citrusy twist. For a more indulgent version, fold in a handful of chopped toasted pecans or walnuts. During the fall season, you could even incorporate a pinch of pumpkin pie spice for a seasonal flair.
Making Purple Sweet Potato Jam Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can experiment with sugar substitutes or use a combination of honey and stevia. For a vegan version, simply swap out the granulated sugar for your preferred plant-based sweetener. If you’re following a gluten-free diet, this Purple Sweet Potato Jam is naturally gluten-free, so you can enjoy it worry-free.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use regular sweet potatoes instead of purple sweet potatoes?
A: While you can use regular sweet potatoes, the vibrant color and unique flavor of the purple sweet potatoes are what truly make this jam special. For the best results, stick to the purple variety.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 6 servings, with each serving being 2 tablespoons.
Q: Can I can or preserve the Purple Sweet Potato Jam?
A: Absolutely! The jam can be canned using a standard water bath canning method, which will allow you to store it for up to 1 year.
Q: My jam didn’t thicken as much as I’d like. What can I do?
A: If the jam is not as thick as you prefer, simply continue simmering it for a bit longer, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired consistency.
Q: Is this jam gluten-free?
A: Yes, this Purple Sweet Potato Jam is naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Purple Sweet Potato Jam
- Total Time: 45
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Discover the secret to making a vibrant and irresistible Purple Sweet Potato Jam in just 15 minutes. This homemade jam is perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or even using as a topping for waffles and pancakes.
Ingredients
– 2 pounds purple sweet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
Instructions
1. 1. In a large saucepan, combine the cubed purple sweet potatoes and enough water to cover them by 1 inch.
2. 2. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the sweet potatoes are very soft.
3. 3. Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and transfer them to a food processor or high-powered blender. Blend until smooth and creamy.
4. 4. Return the sweet potato puree to the saucepan and stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon (if using).
5. 5. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring frequently, until it thickens to a jam-like consistency, about 10-15 minutes.
6. 6. Remove the jam from the heat and let it cool slightly. Transfer the jam to sterilized jars or airtight containers and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.
Notes
– For a smoother texture, pass the blended sweet potato through a fine-mesh sieve before cooking.
– Adjust the amount of sugar to taste, depending on the sweetness of your sweet potatoes.
– The jam can be canned for longer-term storage by following proper canning procedures.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 30
- Category: No‑Bake, Frozen & Sweets
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Purple Sweet Potato Jam is a true taste of nostalgia and a delightful addition to any household. With its vibrant color, sweet flavor, and versatile uses, it’s a recipe that’s sure to become a new family favorite. I hope you’ll enjoy making and sharing this jam, just as I have over the years. Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions, and don’t forget to tag me in your social media posts when you try this recipe!
