Do you want to ensure the best possible result from making your jams, jellies, and other preserves? A jam thermometer is an essential tool that can help make the process easier! With one of these simple-to-use instruments, you can easily monitor the temperature of your jams while it cooks. This is especially useful for determining the set point of jams and jellies. Read on to find out how to use a jam thermometer for the best results with your next batch of homemade preserves!
- Make sure that the probe is clean ahead of every reading to maintain accuracy and hygiene. Make sure that you clean it after each use. Clean it even if you are putting it in and out of the same jam repeatedly.
- Make sure that the reading has stabilised before settling on it. Some thermometers take some time to do this.
- Take the temperature from the centre of the jam pan. With probes or utensil-like thermometers, you can stir it through the mixture to get the most useful overall measurement.
- Avoid having the thermometer touch the bottom of the preserving pan. A reading at this hottest point will be a false reading.
- Know the setting point of the jam so that you can aim for this confidently. This is 105 degrees Celsius (220 degrees F).
- You should clean your thermometer according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Avoid scrubbing it too hard as some designs may result in the lines and numbers being rubbed off in time. If this happens, it will render the thermometer useless.
- Be careful when using the thermometer in boiling liquids so that you do not burn yourself.
Making preserves is a fun and delicious way to use up seasonal fruits. Using a jam thermometer is the best way to get accurate readings when creating with sugar. By following these tips, you’ll be able to get the most from your jam thermometer and make sure that your jams and jellies turn out perfectly every time.