CARROT JAM

Carrot jam is a type of jam made with carrots as a base. Although the thought of a
sweet carrot spread might seem odd, carrot jam actually goes well with a wide range of foods,
thanks to the natural sweetness of carrots. The food is particularly popular in Britain, as is
carrot chutney, a spicier and zestier version. Some grocers carry carrot jam, and it can also be
made at home. Unlike many other preserves, carrot jam does not require processing in a hot
water bath, although it will keep longer if so processed. Basic carrot jam harnesses the natural
sweetness of carrots, making them even sweeter with the addition of sugar and balancing the
sweetness with citrus juice, which also acts as a preservative. It is highly suitable on toast and
many pastries, and it can also be served as a garnish or side dish with things like grilled and
roasted meats. The sweetness of carrot jam complements savory foods very well. To make a
simple carrot jam, grate up four cuts of carrots and cook them on medium heat with the juice
and zest of a lemon, lime, and orange. Add two to three cups of sugar, depending on personal
taste, along with one half teaspoon of salt. Cook until the carrots are suspended in a thick
syrup, which will take around half and an hour. Remove from the stove and pack into jars for
preserving, or just put the carrot jam into a big container and refrigerate it. The food will last
for several weeks in the fridge. For a smoother spread, puree the carrot jam after cooking. If
you want a longer lasting preserve, and one which will keep out of the fridge, assemble
spotlessly clean canning jars and press the carrot jam into them, leaving about half an inch (a
little over one centimeter) of space at the top. Place a pre-heated lid onto each jar, and screw
the canning ring on until just tightened. Immerse the jars in boiling water for approximately
10 minutes, ideally in a canning rack so that water can circulate around them. Cover the jars
while they are being processed, and then remove them and allow them to cool. The lids
should curve inward, indicating that the jars have sealed. If not, reprocess the carrot jam, and
never eat preserves of any kind from a jar with a bulging lid, which indicates a bad seal. It is
crunchy, tasty, and highly nutritious. Carrots are a particularly good source of beta carotene,
fiber, vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants. They also have a number of health benefits.
They're a weight-loss-friendly food and have been linked to lower cholesterol levels and
improved eye health.