Orange Marmalade

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe will delight your taste buds with its sweet and tangy flavors. Made with just four simple ingredients, this marmalade is perfect for slathering on toast, enhancing chicken dishes, or adding a burst of flavor to yogurt and overnight oats. Its versatility makes it suitable for breakfast, brunch, or as a unique gift for friends and family.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple Ingredients: With only four ingredients, you can easily whip up this delicious orange marmalade without any fuss.
• Quick Preparation: This recipe takes only 10 minutes to prep and about 35 minutes to cook, making it a great choice for busy cooks.
• Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on toast, mix it into savory dishes like chicken or beef chops, or stir it into breakfast favorites like yogurt and oatmeal.
• Natural Flavors: The fresh taste of oranges combined with lemon creates a bright and flavorful spread that is free from preservatives.
• Homemade Goodness: Making your own marmalade allows you to control the sweetness and achieve the perfect consistency tailored to your preference.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start making this delightful orange marmalade, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Large saucepan
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon
• Jars or containers with lids

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool helps chop the oranges quickly, ensuring even texture in your marmalade.
• Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows for proper cooking and reduces the risk of overflow as the mixture bubbles.
• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring without scratching your cookware, allowing you to monitor the cooking process effectively.

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 by scrubbing their peels under running water.

Step 2: Chop

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

Step 3: Puree

Place the orange pieces in a food processor. Pulse until the rind is in very small pieces. For testing doneness later, put a plate in the freezer.

Step 4: Combine in Saucepan

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

Step 5: Cook

Bring the mixture to a boil. Then reduce heat for a low boil, simmering while stirring often for 30-35 minutes until thickened. The mixture should slide off a spoon in sheets rather than droplets. To test doneness, pour a spoonful onto your cold plate; if it holds its shape slightly without running easily, it’s ready.

Step 6: Pour into Jars

Once cooked, pour your orange marmalade into jars or containers that have lids. Allow them to cool at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Alternatively, freeze them for up to three months.

Enjoy making this homemade Orange Marmalade that’s sure to brighten up any meal!

How to Serve Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade is a versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes. Whether you enjoy it on breakfast favorites or as a glaze for savory meats, there are endless ways to incorporate this delightful spread into your meals.

On Toast

• Spread orange marmalade generously on warm toast for a sweet and tangy breakfast treat.

With Yogurt

• Stir a spoonful of orange marmalade into yogurt for added flavor and sweetness, making a refreshing snack or breakfast.

As a Marinade

• Use orange marmalade mixed with soy sauce and ginger as a marinade for chicken or beef, adding an irresistible glaze when grilled or baked.

In Overnight Oats

• Mix orange marmalade into overnight oats for a burst of citrus flavor, paired beautifully with nuts and fresh fruits.

With Cheese

• Serve orange marmalade alongside cheese platters, especially with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese, for a gourmet touch.

In Desserts

• Drizzle over cakes or ice cream to infuse desserts with an extra layer of deliciousness. It also works well in pastries and tarts.

How to Perfect Orange Marmalade

Creating the perfect orange marmalade is all about technique and attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve that ideal consistency and flavor.

• Choose ripe oranges: The best flavor comes from fully ripe oranges. Look for oranges that are firm but yield slightly when pressed.
• Don’t skip the zest: Zesting the lemon adds brightness and depth to the marmalade. Make sure to include both juice and zest for maximum flavor.
• Use a thermometer: For perfect thickness, use a candy thermometer. The mixture should reach about 220°F (104°C) for proper gel consistency.
• Test doneness carefully: Always test your marmalade on a cold plate before removing it from heat. This ensures it has reached the right thickness.
• Sterilize jars: To prolong shelf life, ensure your storage jars are sterilized by boiling them in water before filling them with hot marmalade.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing flavors and adding unique twists to traditional meals. Here are some great options:

1. Roasted Vegetables
   Toss vegetables like carrots and Brussels sprouts with olive oil and orange marmalade before roasting for an appealing glaze.
2. Quinoa Salad
   Combine cooked quinoa with chopped veggies and a dressing made from olive oil, vinegar, and a touch of orange marmalade for added zest.
3. Sweet Potato Mash
   Mix mashed sweet potatoes with butter and orange marmalade for a creamy side dish that complements savory main courses beautifully.
4. Rice Pilaf
   Stir in some orange marmalade into rice pilaf along with nuts and dried fruits for extra texture and sweetness.
5. Sautéed Greens
   Drizzle sautéed kale or spinach with orange marmalade just before serving to brighten up the dish with citrus notes.
6. Grilled Asparagus
   Brush asparagus spears with olive oil mixed with orange marmalade before grilling to create a deliciously caramelized finish.
7. Coleslaw
   Add a spoonful of orange marmalade to your coleslaw dressing for an unexpected twist that pairs perfectly with grilled dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Orange Marmalade can be simple, but a few common mistakes can ruin your batch. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the Scrub: Not washing the oranges and lemon properly can leave unwanted residues on the peels. Always scrub them clean to ensure a fresh taste.
• Neglecting the Seeds: Forgetting to remove seeds from the oranges can lead to an unpleasant texture. Take the time to cut and discard any seeds before processing.
• Not Testing for Doneness: Rushing the cooking time without testing can result in a runny marmalade. Use the cold plate test to check if it has thickened adequately.
• Incorrect Storage Containers: Using non-airtight containers can spoil your marmalade quickly. Ensure you use jars with tight-fitting lids for better preservation.
• Ignoring Cooling Time: Pouring hot marmalade directly into jars without cooling can create condensation. Allow it to cool at room temperature first.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight jars or containers.
• Orange Marmalade lasts up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Marmalade

• Use freezer-safe containers or jars, leaving some space for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Orange Marmalade

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Orange Marmalade?

Orange Marmalade is a sweet spread made from oranges, sugar, and water. It’s perfect on toast or as a glaze for dishes.

How do I make Orange Marmalade thicker?

To thicken your Orange Marmalade, ensure you cook it long enough and perform the cold plate test. If it’s still too runny after cooling, simmer longer.

Can I use other fruits for marmalade?

Yes! You can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons or grapefruits for different flavors.

How long does homemade Orange Marmalade last?

Homemade Orange Marmalade lasts about 2 weeks in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer when stored properly.

Final Thoughts

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. Slather it on toast, use it as a glaze for meats, or mix it into yogurt. Feel free to customize it by adding spices or experimenting with different citrus fruits!