How to use Italian Jam

You might not know the differences between Italian jam and American jam, but there are many. In Italy, jams are mostly known as “marmellate” and  is made out of fruit and sugar. They let the natural pectin in the fruit work for a richer and more intense flavor. Most American jam is made of fruit, water and sugar, which makes it much less rich because the water breaks it down more.

There are many ways to use jam. The most popular way to use it is to make pastries. Fill your normal pastry with some Italian jam for a delicious filling. Another popular way to use Italian jam is in or on a biscuit or baked into a cake to add some flavor. Italian blueberry jam is widely popular and can be used for pastries, pancakes, muffins and much more-- plus it's pretty simple to make from scratch.

While baked goods are a popular way to use Italian jams, you can also incorporate them into savory dishes. Orange Italian jam can be spread on top of boneless, skinless chicken breast, then put into an oven to broil. It's simple and quick, and in 25 minutes you can have a great, unique tasting chicken.

The possibilities are endless with jam, and while American and Italian jams are made of similar fruits, the flavor in Italian jams tends to be more intense and sweet. Whether you want to use your Italian jam in a complex dish or simply use it as a spread, jam is a very versatile food to keep in your pantry.