Pear Preserves

Gather all your ingredients and prepare your workspace. (5 minutes)

In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped pears, sugar, crystallized ginger (if using), lemon juice, fresh ginger, and lemon zest. Stir well to combine. Allow the mixture to stand for 2 hours at room temperature, allowing the pears to release their natural juices. Stir occasionally. (2 hours standing)

Place the pot over medium-high heat. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to prevent scorching. Reduce heat to medium and continue to cook, stirring often, until the preserves thicken and reach a gel-like consistency. This can be tested by placing a spoonful of the preserves on a chilled plate; if it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's ready. (45 minutes - 1 hour)

While the preserves are cooking, sterilize your canning jars and lids. Submerge them in boiling water for at least 5 minutes. Remove them carefully and set them aside to dry on a clean towel. (15 minutes)

Once the preserves have reached the desired consistency, carefully ladle them into the hot, sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Use a clean knife or spatula to release any trapped air bubbles. (10 minutes)

Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp paper towel. Place the sterilized lids on top of the jars and screw on the canning rings until fingertip tight. (5 minutes)

Place a canning rack in the bottom of a large stockpot and fill it halfway with water. Bring the water to a boil. Carefully lower the filled jars into the boiling water, ensuring they are fully submerged and have at least 1 inch of water above the tops of the jars. (10 minutes)

Process the jars in the boiling water for 10 minutes. (10 minutes)

Carefully remove the jars from the stockpot using a jar lifter and place them on a towel-lined surface to cool completely. Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. (12-24 hours)

After the jars have cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid doesn't flex, it's properly sealed. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and consumed within a few weeks. Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.