What is the Difference Between Jam and Marmalade?

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The main difference between jam and marmalade lies in the type of fruit used and the parts of the fruit that are included in the final product. Here are the key differences:

  • Type of Fruit: Jams are made from one type of fruit or vegetable, while marmalades must use citrus fruits in their preparation.
  • Fruit Parts: Jams use the entire fruit by crushing, pureeing, and cooking it, while marmalades consist of the citrus peel, pulp, and juice (not the whole fruit).

In summary, jams are made from various fruits and vegetables, using the entire fruit, while marmalades are made specifically from citrus fruits and include the peel, pulp, and juice. This difference in fruit type and parts used results in marmalades having a firmer and chunkier texture compared to the smoother texture of jams.

Comparative Table: Jam vs Marmalade

Here is a table comparing the differences between jam and marmalade:

Feature Jam Marmalade
Fruit or Vegetable Made from one type of fruit or vegetable, using the entire fruit by crushing, pureeing, and cooking Made from citrus fruit, using the citrus peel, pulp, and juice, with pieces of citrus peel and fruit suspended within the set mixture
Texture Usually looser and more spoonable than jelly Thicker texture, similar to jam
Ingredients Whole fruit cut into pieces or crushed, heated with water and sugar until it reaches "setting" point, which is achieved through the action of natural or added pectin Citrus-based, made using a wide range of citrus fruits, including the rinds
Preparation Preserved by sealing in jars, can keep for up to a year when made correctly and potted into sterile jars Often eaten for breakfast on toast and used in some recipes, has less sugar and must be eaten within weeks of making

In summary, jam is made from whole fruit or vegetable and has a looser texture, while marmalade is made from citrus fruit, including the rinds, and has a similar consistency to jam but with a citrus-based flavor.