The Grandmother’s Secret to Perfect Gelatinous Orange Marmalade Revealed

Ingredients for Gelatinous Orange Marmalade

Here’s a classic recipe for a batch that makes about 5–6 jars:

  • 1.5 kg (about 6 large) oranges

  • 2 lemons (for acidity and pectin)

  • 2 liters water

  • 2 kg sugar (caster or preserving sugar)

  • Optional: 1 packet powdered pectin (if using low-pectin oranges)

Step-by-Step Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

  • Wash the oranges and lemons thoroughly.

  • Cut them in half and juice them. Save the juice.

  • Scoop out the pulp and seeds. Place seeds in a muslin bag (they contain natural pectin).

  • Slice the peels thinly or thickly, depending on your texture preference.

Step 2: Cook the Fruit

  • In a large pot, add sliced peels, pulp, juice, muslin bag with seeds, and 2 liters of water.

  • Simmer gently for 2 hours, until the peel is tender.

Step 3: Add the Sugar

  • Remove the muslin bag.

  • Add sugar to the pot and stir until fully dissolved.

  • Turn up the heat and bring to a rolling boil.

Step 4: Achieve the Gelatinous Set

  • Boil for about 15–25 minutes.

  • Test the set: Place a spoonful on a cold plate. Push it with your finger; if it wrinkles, it’s ready.

  • If too runny, boil longer. If too thick, add a splash of water.

Step 5: Jar the Marmalade

  • Sterilize jars by boiling them or heating them in the oven.

  • Pour hot marmalade into jars, leaving a small space at the top.

  • Seal immediately and let cool.