I “collected” my damsons from an abandoned orchard, which technically is theft, but, as they were going to rot if not take away, I call it “waste not want not”! I also have some growing in the orchard so collected my own as well.
I have frozen some ready to make a pie in winter when there is no fruit about, but Damson Jam is one of my favourites.
Ingredients 1 kg Damsons 1.3kg Sugar or add pectin powder and reduce the amount of sugar.... pectin powder - I use this to set the jam without having to use as much sugar, so not as sweet and a bit healthier - see the instructions for amounts etc 12 sterilized jam jars (wash the jars out then place in hot oven for 10 minutes to sterilized)
damson jam
Method place the damsons and water into a large heavy bottom pan and bring to the boil add the sugar and pectin and boil for around 20 minutes take some of the mixture out and put onto a cold plate, to see if it sets if not leave a bit longer boiling, if so it is ready to put into the jars At this stage, the stones will have bubbled to the top so using a slotted spoon you can lift them out. don't worry if you don't get them all gives people something to do whilst having their breakfast toast! pour into the jars, leaving a small gap at the top. Once cooled, secured lids and don't forget to label!! something I am prone to do!
