Frog Jam Recipe

Frog jam Recipe is a delightful and somewhat whimsical addition to any pantry, not made from actual frogs, but an acronym for its main ingredients: figs, raspberries, oranges, and ginger. 

This unique combination yields a jam that’s both tangy and sweet, with a hint of spice, making it perfect for enhancing the flavor of various dishes or simply spreading on toast. 

This recipe will guide you through creating your own batch of frog jam, ensuring a delicious result that can be enjoyed in many ways.

Personal Experience

I first stumbled upon frog jam at a quaint little farmers’ market in the countryside. The unique name caught my eye, but it was the rich, complex flavors that truly won me over. 

Since then, I’ve made it a point to whip up a batch every year, tweaking the recipe slightly each time to enhance its delightful fusion of flavors.

Equipment List

• Large heavy-bottomed pot
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Zester
• Knife and cutting board
• Canning jars and lids
• Jar funnel
• Ladle

Ingredients List

• 1 cup figs, finely chopped
• 1 cup raspberries
• 2 oranges, zested and juiced
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 4 cups sugar
• 1/2 cup water
• 2 teaspoons lemon juice

Frog Jam Recipe – Step by Step Preparation

Step 1:

Prepare the Fruit: Wash all the fruit thoroughly. Chop the figs, zest and juice the oranges, and grate the ginger.

Step 2:

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine figs, raspberries, orange zest, orange juice, ginger, and water. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently.

Step 3:

Add Sugar: Once the fruits have softened, add the sugar and lemon juice, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.

Step 4:

Cook: Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency, about 30-40 minutes.

Step 5:

Test Consistency: To test, place a small amount of jam on a cold plate; if it gels, it’s ready.

Step 5:

Can the Jam: Ladle the jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims, apply the lids and rings, and process in a water bath for 10 minutes.

Tips for Success

1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh, ripe fruit.
2. Monitor the Heat: Keep the heat at a medium to prevent burning but high enough to maintain a gentle boil.
3. Stir Frequently: This prevents the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your taste and the sweetness of the fruit, adjust the amount of sugar.
5. Sterilize Everything: Ensure all jars, lids, and equipment are sterilized to prevent contamination.

Variations

• Spicy Frog Jam: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to introduce a spicy kick.
• Vanilla Frog Jam: Stir in a teaspoon of vanilla extract after the jam has thickened for a warm, comforting note.
• Whiskey Frog Jam: Add a tablespoon of whiskey towards the end of cooking for a robust flavor.
• Berry Frog Jam: Include strawberries or blackberries for an extra berry burst.
• Tropical Frog Jam: Mix in some chopped pineapple and mango for a tropical twist.

Conclusion

With this Frog Jam recipe, you have everything you need to create a uniquely flavorful preserve that will elevate your meals and delight your taste buds. 

Whether you’re spreading it on warm, buttery toast or using it to sweeten your favorite desserts, Frog Jam is a wonderful addition to any kitchen. 

Enjoy the satisfaction of making your own jam, and savor the rich, full flavors that only homemade preserves can offer.

FAQs

Can I make frog jam for later use? 

Yes, frog jam can be canned using the water bath canning method. This process involves filling sterilized jars with hot jam, sealing them with lids, and boiling them in water to create a vacuum seal. This allows the jam to be stored at room temperature until opened.

Can I make a low-sugar frog jam? 

Yes, you can make a low-sugar version of frog jam by using a low-sugar pectin and reducing the amount of sugar in the recipe. 

Be sure to follow the instructions for low-sugar pectin, as it may require different cooking times or additional ingredients like lemon juice to set properly.

Can frog jam be made with frozen fruit? 

Absolutely! Frog jam can be made with frozen fruit if fresh is not available.

Just ensure that the fruit is thawed completely and any excess liquid is drained to maintain the proper consistency and flavor concentration of the jam.