Orange Marmalade

Ingredients :

750 gms oranges, 4 to 5 medium
1 lemon, zest finely grated and juiced
6 cups water
750 gms sugar

Note : My oranges were sweet.. So I used 1:1 ratio. So add sugar according to your preference.

Makes about 2 medium jars.

Directions :

Wash the oranges and lemon thoroughly. Cut the oranges into 1/8-inch slices using a mandoline or slice using knife removing the seeds as you go. Stack the orange slices and cut them into quarters. Place the oranges into an 8-quart stainless steel pot. Add the lemon zest and juice and the water to the pot, set over high heat and bring to a boil, approximately 10 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to maintain a rapid simmer and cook, stirring frequently, for 40 minutes or until the fruit is very soft.

Meanwhile, place a small plate in the freezer. Increase the heat under the orange mixture to return to full boil. Add the sugar and stir the mixture continually, until it reaches 222 to 223 degrees F on a deep-fry or candy thermometer, and darkens in color, approximately 15 to 20 minutes. You may need to adjust the heat in order to prevent boil over.

Test the readiness of the marmalade by placing a teaspoon of the mixture onto the chilled plate and allowing it to sit for 30 seconds. Tilt the plate. The mixture should be a soft gel that moves slightly. If mixture is thin and runs easily, it is not ready.

Once ready fill in jars while it's still warm, up to the rim and close lid.

Place in a cool dry place and allow to sit at room temperature for at least 24 hours before opening.

Once open, store in the refrigerator. Unopened marmalade will last for up to 6 months.

Enjoy