Homemade Pear Cardamom Preserve - Kitchen Envy

This preserve highlights the delicate sweetness of ripe pears and the exotic aroma of cardamom. A touch of honey balances the sugar and gives the jam a mellow warmth. The result is a chunky, spoonable preserve that pairs beautifully with cheeses or croissants.

Ingredients

• 5 lbs ripe pears, peeled, cored and diced
• 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/2 cup honey
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 1 tsp ground cardamom or 6 crushed pods
• 1/2 cup water

Instructions

1. Combine pears, sugar, honey, water and lemon juice in a heavy pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
2. Cook, stirring often, until the pears are translucent and tender, about 45 minutes.
3. Mash some of the fruit with a potato masher for a rustic texture. Stir in ground cardamom and cook another 10 minutes.
4. Prepare canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water. Fill hot jars with preserve, leaving 1/4-inch headspace.
5. Remove air bubbles, wipe rims clean and attach lids and bands. Process in a boiling-water bath for 10 minutes. Let cool completely.

Serve this pear preserve atop scones or stirred into porridge. The subtle spice of cardamom makes it an elegant accompaniment for a cheese platter or charcuterie board.