Orange Marmalade

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the bright, zesty flavor of oranges. With just four ingredients and no special equipment required, you can create a sweet and tangy spread that’s perfect for breakfast or elevating savory dishes. Whether you’re slathering it on toast, pairing it with chicken or beef, or adding it to yogurt, this homemade marmalade is sure to impress at any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: Made with just oranges, lemon, sugar, and water, this recipe is straightforward and accessible.
• Versatile Use: Perfect for breakfast spreads, marinades for meats, or as a topping for desserts.
• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time and 35 minutes of cooking, you’ll have delicious marmalade in under an hour.
• Fresh Flavor: Unlike store-bought versions, this homemade orange marmalade bursts with the vibrant taste of fresh fruit.
• Storage Friendly: This recipe yields several jars of marmalade that can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen for later use.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into making your Orange Marmalade, gather the necessary tools to make the process smooth and efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large saucepan
• Jars or containers with lids
• Freezer-safe plate

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Essential for breaking down the orange pieces into smaller bits quickly and efficiently.
• Large saucepan: Provides ample space for cooking the mixture without overflow while allowing for even heat distribution.
• Jars or containers with lids: Necessary for storing your finished marmalade safely to preserve its freshness.

Ingredients

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is made with just four ingredients, no special equipment, and is absolutely delicious! Enjoy it slathered on toast, beef chops, chicken, or stirred into yogurt or overnight oats!

For the Marmalade

• 2.0 to 2.3 pounds oranges (about 4 medium)
• 1 lemon (zest and juice of)
• 1/3 cup water
• 4 cups granulated sugar

How to Make Orange Marmalade

Step 1: Prep Fruit

Wash the oranges and lemon thoroughly. Scrub their peels to remove any dirt.

Step 2: Chop

Cut off the ends of each orange. Halve the oranges and then cut each half into four pieces. Discard any seeds you find.

Step 3: Puree

Place the chopped orange pieces in a food processor. Pulse until the rind is finely chopped. Put a plate in the freezer; you’ll use it later to test for doneness.

Step 4: Combine in Saucepan

In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the pureed oranges. Zest the lemon directly into the pot and squeeze in its juice. Pour in the water and add sugar; stir well until combined.

Step 5: Cook

Bring your mixture to a boil. Then reduce it to a low boil and let it simmer while stirring often for about 30-35 minutes until thickened. The mixture should slide off a spoon in sheets rather than droplets. To check doneness, pour a spoonful onto your cold plate; if it has a soft gel consistency that moves slightly but doesn’t run easily off the plate, it’s ready!

Step 6: Store

Carefully pour your hot marmalade into jars or containers with lids. Allow them to cool at room temperature before sealing them up. Store in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or freeze for up to three months.

How to Serve Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade is a versatile condiment that can elevate a variety of dishes. Whether you’re enjoying it for breakfast, lunch, or as part of a savory meal, here are some delightful ways to incorporate this sweet and tangy spread into your meals.

On Toast

• Spread orange marmalade on warm, toasted bread for a simple yet delicious breakfast or snack. The sweet and citrusy flavors complement butter beautifully.

With Chicken

• Use orange marmalade as a glaze for roasted or grilled chicken. It adds a lovely sweetness that pairs well with savory spices and herbs.

In Yogurt

• Stir orange marmalade into plain yogurt for a refreshing and flavorful treat. This combination makes for an excellent breakfast option or snack.

As a Topping

• Drizzle orange marmalade over pancakes or waffles instead of syrup. The vibrant flavor will give your morning meal a zesty twist.

Mixed in Oats

• Add a spoonful of orange marmalade to overnight oats for added sweetness and an extra layer of flavor. It’s an easy way to make your breakfast more exciting.

With Cheese

• Serve orange marmalade alongside cheese platters. It pairs exceptionally well with creamy cheeses like brie or tangy goat cheese, enhancing their flavors.

How to Perfect Orange Marmalade

To achieve the best results with your orange marmalade, consider these useful tips. They will help ensure your marmalade turns out perfectly every time.

• Choose ripe oranges: Select oranges that feel heavy for their size and have smooth peels for the best flavor and juiciness.
• Use fresh lemon juice: Fresh lemon juice enhances the tartness of the marmalade and helps balance the sweetness from the sugar.
• Check consistency early: Start testing the consistency of your marmalade after about 30 minutes of cooking. This avoids overcooking it.
• Use a cold plate for testing: Place a plate in the freezer before cooking; it will help you test if the marmalade has reached the desired gel-like consistency.
• Store properly: Ensure jars are clean and dry before pouring in the hot marmalade to prevent spoilage. Store it in the refrigerator or freeze for longer shelf life.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade can complement many side dishes beautifully. Here are some great options that pair well with its unique flavor profile.

1. Roasted Vegetables
   Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots and Brussel sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper before roasting them until caramelized.
2. Rice Pilaf
   Fluff up rice pilaf with herbs and nuts for a nutty side dish that balances the sweetness of orange marmalade when served together.
3. Mashed Sweet Potatoes
   Creamy mashed sweet potatoes can be elevated with a swirl of orange marmalade mixed in, offering a sweet contrast to savory mains.
4. Quinoa Salad
   Prepare quinoa salad mixed with diced veggies, nuts, and dried fruits; add orange marmalade as a dressing component for extra zest.
5. Green Beans Almondine
   Sauté green beans with almonds and garlic for a crunchy side dish that pairs nicely with the sweetness of orange marmalade.
6. Savory Scones
   Bake herb-infused scones that can be enjoyed warm alongside orange marmalade spread—perfect for brunch!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making orange marmalade can be a delightful experience, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Bold fruit preparation: Not washing the oranges and lemon properly can result in unwanted flavors. Always scrub your fruit thoroughly before starting.
• Bold cutting inconsistencies: Cutting the oranges into uneven pieces can lead to uneven cooking. Make sure all pieces are roughly the same size for uniformity.
• Bold ignoring temperature control: Cooking at too high a temperature can cause your marmalade to burn. Keep it at a low boil and stir often to prevent scorching.
• Bold neglecting the doneness test: Failing to test for doneness can result in a runny marmalade. Use a cold plate and check for a gel-like consistency before you finish cooking.
• Bold inadequate storage: Storing marmalade in non-airtight containers can spoil it quickly. Use jars with tight-fitting lids to keep it fresh longer.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store orange marmalade in airtight jars or containers.
• It will last up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Marmalade

• Place marmalade in freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving space for expansion.
• You can freeze it for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Marmalade

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm the marmalade in an oven-safe dish until desired warmth is reached.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 10-15 seconds, stirring between each burst until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring constantly until warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Marmalade?

Orange marmalade is a sweet and tangy preserve made from oranges, sugar, and sometimes lemon juice. It’s perfect for spreading on toast or adding flavor to dishes.

How do I make Orange Marmalade thicker?

To thicken your orange marmalade, ensure you cook it long enough until it reaches the right gel consistency on a cold plate test.

Can I use other fruits in my Orange Marmalade?

Yes! You can mix in other citrus fruits like lemons or limes for added flavor. Just adjust the sugar accordingly.

What can I use Orange Marmalade for?

Orange marmalade is versatile; use it as a spread, glaze chicken or beef, or swirl it into yogurt and oatmeal.

Final Thoughts

This easy orange marmalade recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. Enjoy it on toast, as a glaze for meats, or even mixed into breakfast dishes. Feel free to customize by experimenting with different citrus fruits or adding spices like ginger for extra flair!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Orange Marmalade

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• Author: Lara
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 32 servings (1 tablespoon each) 1x

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Description

Brighten your breakfast with this easy homemade Orange Marmalade, a delightful blend of sweetness and tanginess that captures the essence of fresh oranges. With just four simple ingredients—fresh oranges, lemon juice, sugar, and water—you can create a vibrant spread that’s perfect for toast, yogurt, or as a glaze for savory dishes like chicken or beef. This recipe requires no special equipment and comes together quickly in under an hour, making it an accessible choice for home cooks of all levels. Enjoy the satisfaction of crafting your own marmalade and elevate your meals with its zesty flavor!

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2.0 to 2.3 pounds oranges (about 4 medium)
• 1 lemon (zest and juice)
• 1/3 cup water
• 4 cups granulated sugar

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Instructions

1. Wash the oranges and lemon thoroughly. Scrub their peels.
2. Cut off the ends of each orange; halve them and cut into quarters, removing seeds.
3. Place chopped oranges in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
4. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine pureed oranges, lemon zest, lemon juice, water, and sugar. Stir well.
5. Bring to a boil then reduce to a low boil. Simmer for about 30-35 minutes, stirring often until thickened. Check doneness using a cold plate; it should have a gel-like consistency.
6. Pour hot marmalade into jars or containers. Allow to cool before sealing.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Condiment
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 50
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 0mg
• Fat: 0g
• Saturated Fat: 0g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 0g
• Cholesterol: 0mg