How to Make Jam
Jam Making Essentials

Ready to learn how to make jam? Or already an expert? Whichever it is, making jam is even more fun if you use the right equipment - which does not mean that you have to pick up ever gadget going.

I don't own that much specialist kitchen equipment - yeesh! I don't even own a microwave oven! - so when I buy something, it tends to get used and then some.

I make jam on average every 4-6 weeks between February and November, sometimes only half a dozen jars and sometimes a lot more.

And here are a few bits of kit I would not want to be without and a few things that look seriously useful to me if you want to learn how to make jam.

A Traditional Jam Pan

I bought my Traditional Preserving Pan when we got hooked on English marmalade, as all my other pans were much too small for the quantities I needed. It's without doubt one of the best bits of kitchen gear I ever bought. This pan is sturdy, but still easy to handle. Even after much abuse mine doesn't have hot spots and cleaning it couldn't be simpler.

Jam Jars

You can't make jam without decent Jam Jars. But if you don't have any old jam jars to hand, or need to replace some, then these are a good bet. They come in 8oz and 1lb sizes and when the lids go, you can replace these, too. They also look the part if you want to sell or give away some of your produce, but they don't break the bank. Very good value for money!

Preserving Jars

These Preserving Jars will look professional in any kitchen. On top of that, they're very sturdy. I've on occasion managed to drop one without a major disaster, and that has to be a good thing. I tend to use the smaller ones for jams and jellies and the big ones for chutney and pickles.

Jam Jar Toppers

I've just discovered these Jam Jar Toppers and they're a real no-brainer. One of those "Why didn't I think of that?" products. Ideal when you have lots of stuff in the fridge door or - like me - store all the jams and chutneys in a box on the bottom shelf of a large cupboard. No more kneeling down and looking at each jar to find the strawberry jam.

Tefal Electric Jam Maker

If you don't know how to make jam, are not that confident in the kitchen, or really lack the time, then you may want to take a look at the Tefal Electric Jam Maker. Customer reviews show that it is blissfully straightforward, looks after itself, comes up with the goods and is easy to clean. Please share your experiences with us if you have one of these!

There are many ways how to make jam, but with the right tools, the job will be much easier. I hope you've found something useful on this page.

Cooking is as much about food as it is about sharing and having fun in the kitchen, so if you're using something I haven't found yet ... we're really keen to hear about it.