Description
Drunken Monkey Jam is a rich and flavorful homemade banana jam infused with dark rum and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This smooth, glossy jam offers a unique twist on traditional fruit preserves, perfect for spreading on toast or enhancing desserts. The slow simmering process thickens the mixture to the perfect consistency while the rum adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.
Ingredients
Scale
Fruit Base
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
Flavorings
- 1/2 cup dark rum
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Sweetener
- 1 cup granulated sugar
Instructions
- Prepare Bananas: Begin by peeling and mashing the ripe bananas in a medium-sized mixing bowl until smooth to create the jam’s fruit base.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, combine the mashed bananas, dark rum, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice to prepare the jam mixture.
- Dissolve Sugar: Place the saucepan over medium heat and stir the mixture consistently with a wooden spoon until the sugar is fully dissolved, ensuring an even sweetness.
- Boil and Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low to allow it to simmer slowly, which helps develop the flavors and thicken the jam.
- Cook to Thickness: Stir often and let the jam cook for approximately 20-30 minutes, or until it becomes thick and glossy, indicating it’s ready.
- Test Consistency: Test the jam’s consistency by placing a small amount on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, the jam has reached the ideal set.
- Cool Slightly: Once the jam has thickened properly, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly before bottling.
- Jar the Jam: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rims clean and seal with sterilized lids to preserve freshness.
- Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool at room temperature, then store them in the refrigerator. The jam can be refrigerated and enjoyed for up to one month.
Notes
- Ensure bananas are very ripe for maximum sweetness and flavor.
- Sterilize jars and lids properly to extend shelf life and prevent contamination.
- Adjust the amount of sugar slightly based on the banana’s natural sweetness.
- Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning during simmering.
- Store jam in the refrigerator and consume within one month for optimal freshness.
