Refridgerator Jam

Basically, you need so few and inexpensive things that I'm shocked we don't all just make our own jam.  I know that when I think of jams and jellies, I think of my grandma's huge steaming set, complete with metal jar-holding insert thingamajig, pre-boiled jars and crates and crates of unprocessed fruits everywhere -- AND HOURS UPON HOURS, really, a whole week, devoted to NOTHING but that dreaded canning.


Forget that.  This is simple, easy, works with just ONE jar, and it's good up to 3 weeks - much longer than is necessary for something that tastes this good.

"Ingredients."

1 Pre-washed former Jam jar, 32 oz, with intact lid.
1 Medium sized kettle
3/4 C Apple Juice, store bought or home made (blended and strained)
3 C Fruit Pieces
1 Box Sure Jell Premium Fruit Pectin, "No Sugar Needed..."
8 Packets Sun Crystals (if the apple juice was home made)

Instructions

1.  Wash the jar well, preferably in the dishwasher, then put immediately in the fridge.
2.  Mix the Sun Crystals and Sure Jell into the apple juice, and use a spiral wire whisk to get all the lumps out.
3.  Add apple juice and fruit pieces together, then bring to a boil for 1 minute, turning the temperature down to medium-high, then medium, as soon as it boils.  Use a timer.  Remove from heat, and let cool for at least 4 hours.  It shouldn't fully set yet.
4.  Pour the unset but thick jam into the jar and put in the fridge to set for at least 4 more hours.  It will not be sealed, but really, in this case, that doesn't matter.  It'll be good for up to 3 weeks, and gone within 1.  So, eh, whatever.

Now, if you want to do many jars, I don't suggest following these instructions at all, because the jars won't be sealed, thus safe to store on the long term.  At that point, I would suggest following the instructions that come in the box.  But, if you're like me, and you only would really want to make 1 jar at a time, then this is definitely the way to go.  Truth is - my first jar was made yesterday, and it's already half gone!  It kinda helps that this is essentially sugar free and almost (not quite) calorie free.  It's awesome :)