peppy pear preserves

Ingredients

• Servings: 6
• 3 pounds pears - peeled, cored, and chopped
• 4 cups white sugar
• 1/2 cup chopped crystallized ginger
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh ginger
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest

Recipe

Preparation Time: 30 mins Cook Time: 45 mins Ready Time: 3 hrs 15 mins


• mix chopped pears with sugar, crystallized ginger, lemon juice, fresh ginger, and lemon zest in a large heavy pot; let the mixture stand for 2 hours for pears to release their juice. place the pot over medium-high heat, bring to a boil; cook, stirring often, until preserves are thick and fall off a metal spoon in sheets, 45 minutes to 1 hour. pear pieces will be translucent and preserves will be darkened.
• sterilize the jars and lids in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. pack the pear preserves into the hot, sterilized jars, filling the jars to within 1/4 inch of the top. run a knife or a thin spatula around the insides of the jars after they have been filled to remove any air . wipe the rims of the jars with a moist paper towel to remove any food residue. top with lids, and screw on rings.
• place a rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill halfway with water. bring to a boil and lower jars into the boiling water using a holder. leave a 2-inch space between the jars. pour in more boiling water if necessary to bring the water level to at least 1 inch above the tops of the jars. bring the water to a rolling boil, cover the pot, and process for 10 minutes.
• remove the jars from the stockpot and place a cloth-covered or wood surface, several inches apart, until cool. once cool, press the top of each lid with a finger, ensuring that the seal is tight (lid does not move up or down at all). store in a cool, dark area.