Description
Drunken Monkey Jam is a luscious homemade banana jam infused with dark rum and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. This sweet and aromatic spread combines mashed ripe bananas with a hint of vanilla and a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Slow-simmered to a thick, glossy consistency, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on desserts, or incorporating into breakfast dishes.
Ingredients
Scale
Jam Ingredients
- 4 ripe bananas, mashed
- 1/2 cup dark rum
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Prepare the bananas: Peel and mash the ripe bananas thoroughly in a medium-sized mixing bowl until the texture is smooth and uniform.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium saucepan, add the mashed bananas, dark rum, granulated sugar, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, ground nutmeg, and lemon juice. Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
- Dissolve sugar: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar is completely dissolved into the banana mixture.
- Bring to a boil: Increase the heat until the mixture gently comes to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low to maintain a simmer.
- Simmer the jam: Stir frequently as the jam cooks on low heat for about 20 to 30 minutes, allowing it to thicken and achieve a glossy appearance.
- Check consistency: Test the jam by placing a small amount on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it has reached the right set. If not, continue simmering a few more minutes and test again.
- Cool slightly: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool down slightly before handling.
- Jar the jam: Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving approximately 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Clean the rims with a damp cloth, then seal with sterilized lids tightly.
- Store the jam: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store the jam in the refrigerator where it will keep well for up to one month.
Notes
- Use very ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and flavor.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to extend shelf life and prevent spoilage.
- Dark rum adds depth and complexity, but you can substitute with spiced rum or omit for an alcohol-free version.
- For a smoother jam, strain out any lumps after cooking if desired.
- This jam is excellent on toast, pancakes, waffles, or as a topping for yogurt and ice cream.
