Bergamot jam

bergamot ripe fruit

This is the first fruit harvested from my little bergamot tree, so happy to see the little green fruit grew big during summer and eventually turn yellow when cold weather arrived. 

bergamot flowers in spring

I have read so much about the fragrance of bergamot and that is being used in Earl Grey tea etc, it is great to have a first hand experience.

Well, my bergamot, when scratched releases a very pleasant citrus smell, that's all I would say. 

making bergamot jam

To make the jam in order to enjoy the bergamot longer, I first shaved off the zest in a thin strip then cut into fine strips. The thick white layer is quite bitter and I have to blanch it for a couple of minutes to reduce the bitterness. The flesh is like a grapefruit and taste similar too.

bergamot jam

1. Cut flesh and blanched white layer into small pieces, in a pan together with zest, add a little water to cover and sugar to sweeten.

2. Bring to boil, then cover with lid and let it cool down. Repeat 2 times, by then the skin should have released enough pectin to thicken, adjust sweetness.