Orange Marmalade

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is a delightful way to brighten up your breakfast or snack time. With just four simple ingredients, you can create this sweet and tangy spread that pairs perfectly with toast, beef chops, chicken, or even stirred into yogurt and overnight oats. Ideal for any occasion, this marmalade captures the fresh flavors of oranges and is sure to impress your family and friends!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Simple Ingredients: Made with just four readily available ingredients, this recipe ensures you can whip up a batch without hassle.
  • Versatile Uses: Enjoy it on toast, as a glaze for meats, or as a flavorful addition to desserts and breakfast dishes.
  • Delicious Flavor: The combination of sweet oranges and zesty lemon creates a balanced taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying.
  • No Special Equipment Required: You don’t need any fancy gadgets—just a saucepan and a food processor to make this marmalade.
  • Perfect for Gifting: Homemade orange marmalade makes a thoughtful gift for friends and family during holidays or special occasions.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Orange Marmalade efficiently, it’s important to have the right tools at hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

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 finely chop the oranges quickly, making the preparation process much easier.
  • Large saucepan: A spacious pot allows for even cooking while preventing overflow as the mixture boils.
  • Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity in your marmalade.

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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, scrubbing the peels to remove any dirt.

Step 2: Chop

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

Step 3: Puree

  • Place the orange pieces in a food processor.
  • Pulse or chop until the rind is in very small pieces.
  • Place a plate in the freezer to help test for doneness later.

Step 4: Combine in Saucepan

  • Add the pureed oranges to a large saucepan over medium heat.
  • Zest the lemon into the pot and squeeze in its juice.
  • Add water and granulated sugar; stir well.

Step 5: Cook

  • Bring the mixture to a boil.
  • Reduce heat to a low boil and simmer while stirring often for about 30–35 minutes until thickened.
  • The consistency should be such that it slides off the spoon in sheets rather than droplets.

Step 6: Pour Into Jars

  • Once thickened, pour the marmalade into jars or containers with lids.
  • Allow it to cool to room temperature before storing in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or freezing for up to 3 months.

How to Serve Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade is a versatile condiment that can elevate many dishes with its sweet-tart flavor. Here are some delightful ways to enjoy your homemade orange marmalade.

On Toast

  • Spread a generous layer of orange marmalade on warm, buttered toast for a perfect breakfast or snack.

With Cheese

  • Pair orange marmalade with creamy cheeses like brie or goat cheese for an elegant appetizer. The sweetness complements the richness of the cheese beautifully.

Glazed Chicken

  • Use orange marmalade as a glaze for grilled or roasted chicken. Its tangy flavor adds depth and enhances the dish’s overall taste.

Stirred into Yogurt

  • Mix a spoonful of orange marmalade into your favorite yogurt for a refreshing and flavorful treat. This works great in both regular and plant-based yogurts.

In Overnight Oats

  • Add orange marmalade to overnight oats for a burst of citrus flavor. Combine it with oats, milk (or plant-based alternatives), and your choice of toppings.

As a Sauce for Beef Chops

  • Drizzle orange marmalade over pan-seared beef chops to create a deliciously sweet glaze that balances the meat’s savory notes.

How to Perfect Orange Marmalade

Making the best orange marmalade requires attention to detail and technique. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your marmalade turns out perfectly every time.

  • Use ripe oranges: Choose oranges that are firm, fragrant, and slightly soft to the touch. Ripe oranges will yield more juice and flavor.
  • Adjust thickness: If your marmalade is not thick enough, simmer it longer until it reaches the desired consistency tested on a cold plate.
  • Store properly: Once cooled, store your orange marmalade in airtight jars to maintain freshness. Refrigerate for up to 2 weeks or freeze for longer storage.
  • Experiment with flavors: Feel free to add spices like ginger or cardamom for an interesting twist on traditional orange marmalade.

Best Side Dishes for Orange Marmalade

Orange marmalade can enhance various side dishes, adding a unique flavor profile. Here are some excellent sides that pair well with this sweet condiment:

  1. Roasted Vegetables: Toss seasonal vegetables like carrots and sweet potatoes with olive oil and roast them until caramelized; drizzle with orange marmalade before serving.
  2. Quinoa Salad: Combine cooked quinoa with chopped vegetables and drizzle in some orange marmalade for added sweetness and texture.
  3. Grilled Asparagus: Lightly grill asparagus spears and finish with a drizzle of orange marmalade mixed with lemon juice for brightness.
  4. Sweet Potato Mash: Blend boiled sweet potatoes with a hint of orange marmalade for creamy, flavorful mashed potatoes that pair well with savory dishes.
  5. Rice Pilaf: Cook rice pilaf with broth, nuts, and dried fruits; mix in some orange marmalade just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.
  6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roast Brussels sprouts until crispy and toss them in a little orange marmalade for an exquisite contrast between sweetness and bitterness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Orange Marmalade can be a joy, but there are common pitfalls to watch out for.

  • Bold Preparation: Not washing the fruit thoroughly can lead to a bitter taste. Always scrub your oranges and lemons well before starting.
  • Bold Incorrect Cutting: Failing to remove seeds or cutting the fruit too large will result in an uneven texture. Make sure you chop the oranges into small pieces for better blending.
  • Bold Ignoring Temperature: Cooking at too high a temperature can scorch the mixture. Keep it at a low boil for even cooking and to achieve that perfect gel consistency.
  • Bold Skipping Taste Tests: Not checking for doneness can leave you with runny marmalade. Use the cold plate test to ensure it has thickened properly before removing from heat.
  • Bold Improper Storage: Storing in non-airtight containers may spoil your marmalade quickly. Use jars with tight lids to extend freshness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

  • Store the Orange Marmalade in airtight jars.
  • It will last for up to 2 weeks in the refrigerator.

Freezing Orange Marmalade

  • For long-term storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
  • It can be stored for up to 3 months without losing flavor.

Reheating Orange Marmalade

  • Bold Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the jar (without its lid) on a baking sheet for about 10 minutes until warmed.
  • Bold Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until it reaches your desired temperature.
  • Bold Stovetop: Place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring gently until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Orange Marmalade:

How do I know when my Orange Marmalade is done?

The mixture should slide off the spoon in sheets rather than droplets and should have a soft gel consistency when tested on a cold plate.

Can I use other fruits for this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with other citrus fruits like lemons or grapefruits, but adjust sugar levels accordingly based on their sweetness.

What can I pair with Orange Marmalade?

Orange Marmalade pairs beautifully with toast, yogurt, or even as a glaze for chicken and beef dishes, adding a sweet tangy flavor.

Is there an easy way to make Orange Marmalade without pectin?

This recipe does not require added pectin because the natural pectin in the fruit helps create that thick texture.

How should I serve Orange Marmalade?

You can slather it on toast or pancakes, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a filling for pastries. The options are endless!

Final Thoughts

This easy Orange Marmalade recipe is not only delicious but also versatile. You can enjoy it as part of breakfast or as an ingredient in savory dishes. Feel free to customize it by adding spices like ginger or cinnamon for an extra kick!

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Orange Marmalade

Orange Marmalade is a delightful and easy-to-make spread bursting with the bright flavors of fresh oranges. This recipe requires just four simple ingredients, making it an accessible project for any home cook. The sweet and tangy taste of this marmalade enhances breakfast favorites like toast and yogurt, while also serving as an exquisite glaze for grilled chicken or beef. With its refreshing citrus profile, Orange Marmalade is perfect for elevating both sweet and savory dishes, making it a versatile addition to your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re looking to brighten up your morning routine or gift a jar to friends, this homemade marmalade is sure to impress.

  • Total Time: 50 minutes
  • Yield: Approximately 32 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2.0 to 2.3 pounds oranges (about 4 medium)
  • 1 lemon (zest and juice)
  • 1/3 cup water
  • 4 cups granulated sugar

Instructions

  1. Wash the oranges and lemon thoroughly.
  2. Cut off the ends of the oranges, halve them, and chop each half into four pieces, discarding seeds.
  3. Place the orange pieces in a food processor and pulse until finely chopped.
  4. In a large saucepan over medium heat, combine the pureed oranges, lemon zest and juice, water, and sugar; stir well.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low boil and simmer for 30–35 minutes until thickened.
  6. Pour the marmalade into jars or containers with lids once thickened. Allow cooling before storing.
  • Author: Emmeline
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 35 minutes
  • Category: Desserts & Sweets
  • Method: Cooking
  • Cuisine: Citrus

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 tablespoon (20g)
  • Calories: 60
  • Sugar: 14g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 16g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Use ripe oranges for optimal flavor and juiciness. Adjust thickness by simmering longer if needed; test consistency using the cold plate method. Experiment by adding spices like ginger or cardamom for a unique twist.

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