Damson Plum Preserves

Ingredients

• 1 lb damsons
• 3/4 lb sugar
• 1 cup water

Method

1. 1 Wipe damsons with a cloth wrung out of cold water and prick each fruit 5-6 times with a large needle.
2. 2 Weigh the damsons. Combine three-fourths their weight in sugar with water (1 cup per pound of sugar) and boil to make a syrup.
3. 3 Skim the syrup when it reaches boiling point. Add plums a few at a time to help them keep their shape.
4. 4 Cook until the fruit is soft. Use two kettles if possible to speed up the process and prevent overcooking the syrup.
5. 5 Pack the preserves into glass or stone jars.