Fruit spreads are part of everyday breakfasts in many countries. They are used on toast, in baking, and in cooking.
Still, shoppers often hesitate when choosing between jam and marmalade because the names are sometimes used loosely.
What they are made of
Jam is made by cooking fruit with sugar until it thickens. The fruit breaks down during cooking, which gives jam a soft and slightly uneven texture.
It may contain seeds, but usually no large pieces of fruit.
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The thickening happens naturally because fruit contains pectin, a substance that firms up when heated and cooled.
Marmalade is different because it is made only from citrus fruits. This includes oranges, lemons, or grapefruit. Unlike jam, marmalade keeps the peel.
The peel is boiled first to soften it and reduce bitterness, then cooked with sugar.
Citrus fruits contain a lot of pectin, which gives marmalade a firmer, jelly-like structure.
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How they are used
Because of its softer texture, jam spreads easily and blends well into baked goods like cakes and pastries. It adds sweetness without standing out too much.
Marmalade has a stronger taste.
The citrus peel adds bitterness and texture, which makes it suitable not only for toast but also for sauces and traditional meat dishes, especially in British cooking.
Why the difference matters
Jam and marmalade are made in similar ways, but their ingredients and textures lead to different results.
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Knowing the difference helps people choose the right spread for their taste and for how they plan to use it.
Sources: All Recipes.
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