Make Vibrant Dragon Fruit Jam at Home with This Easy Recipe

The Brilliant Red Dragon Fruit

The vibrant red dragon fruit is an exotic tropical fruit that is becoming increasingly popular. With its unique look and sweet flavor, it's no wonder why dragon fruit is appearing on more and more produce shelves andcaptured the intrigue of home cooks. One of the best ways to enjoy dragon fruit is by turning it into a sweet and tangy jam.

Getting to Know Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit grows on a cactus plant known as the Honolulu queen. The plant produces fragrant flowers that only bloom at night. After the flowers are pollinated, the resulting fruit begins to grow. There are a few different varieties of dragon fruit, but the most common has pinkish-red skin with green scales that resemble a dragon, hence its name.

The inside of the most common variety has white flesh dotted with tiny black seeds. The white flesh is mildly sweet and similar to a kiwi or pear. Other varieties can have yellow or red flesh. No matter what the color, dragon fruit offers a unique tropical flavor.

Nutritional Benefits of Dragon Fruit

Dragon fruit is low in calories but packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The seeds are a good source of healthy polyunsaturated fats like omega 3 and omega 6. Dragon fruit contains prebiotic fiber which helps support gut health and improves digestion.

It also contains compounds called betacyanins which give it that vibrant red color. Betacyanins may help reduce inflammation in the body and lower oxidative stress. Dragon fruit is high in vitamin C, an essential nutrient that supports immune function. It also contains iron, magnesium, vitamin E and B vitamins.

Turn Dragon Fruit into Sweet Jam

Making your own dragon fruit jam at home takes this unique tropical fruit to a whole new level. The sweet jam pairs perfectly with toast, scones, oatmeal, yogurt, cheese boards and more. Homemade dragon fruit jam also makes a thoughtful food gift for neighbors, friends and family.

Ingredients

Making dragon fruit jam is simple. All it takes is dragon fruit, sugar and lemon juice. The full ingredient list includes:

• 3 cups dragon fruit puree (about 5 medium dragon fruits)
• 1⁄4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
• 3 cups white sugar

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for how to make dragon fruit jam at home:

1. Wash the dragon fruits, cut them in half and scoop the flesh out with a spoon into a blender or food processor
2. Puree until smooth then pour into a pot over medium heat
3. Add the lemon juice and sugar and bring to a boil while stirring continuously
4. Once boiling, reduce heat and let simmer for about 20 minutes until thickened to your desired consistency
5. Remove from heat and carefully pour or spoon into sterilized jars
6. Allow to cool before sealing jars for storage

Be sure to sterilize all canning equipment properly first. Dragon fruit jam will keep sealed in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For long term pantry storage, process sealed jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.

Unique and Flavorful Jam

Homemade dragon fruit jam is delicious and unique. It has a mild sweetness that pairs perfectly with toast, scones, cream cheese and more. The vibrant color also looks beautiful spread over cream cheese on a charcuterie board.

Infused with tropical dragon fruit flavor, this jam is a real showstopper. Making your own dragon fruit jam is much healthier and more affordable than buying exotic jams from the store. Feel free to get creative with this recipe too by adding spices like cinnamon or cardamom.

However you decide to enjoy it, homemade dragon fruit jam is sure to delight family and friends. The dragon fruit adds just enough tropical sweetness to make this jam really stand out from the rest.

FAQs

What's the best way to store dragon fruit jam?

Dragon fruit jam will keep for 2-3 weeks sealed in the fridge. For long term storage, process sealed jam jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes.

Can I use frozen dragon fruit?

Yes, you can use frozen dragon fruit. Thaw first and drain any excess liquid before pureeing.

Is dragon fruit jam safe for babies?

Yes, once a child is ready for solid foods dragon fruit jam makes a safe occasional treat. Check with your pediatrician if you have any concerns.

What's the difference between jelly, jam and preserves?

Jelly uses fruit juice, jam uses mashed fruit, and preserves use small pieces of fruit in a gelatinous jelly-like base.

What can I serve dragon fruit jam with?

Dragon fruit jam pairs perfectly with toast, scones, oatmeal, yogurt, cream cheese, charcuterie boards, cheesecake and more!