Rhubarb Ginger Freezer Jam

It's fall. Time to harvest rhubarb (or pull out the frozen rhubarb from an earlier harvest) and make something delicious with it. I love the tart sweet flavor of rhubarb jam on hot buttered toast. This is partially from looking for recipes for rhubarb that didn't require canning expertise and a little experimentation. Everyone makes rhubarb with strawberries and I had to do something different. The hint of spicy ginger was just the ticket. Have fun and don't be afraid to taste and play with spices and additions to make this jam your own!

I just love the color!

Rhubarb Ginger Freezer Jam

• 4 cups rhubarb (chopped, about 1 1/2 pounds rhubarb stalks)
• 3/4 to 1 1/4 cups sugar (taste as you go)
• 2 tablespoons water
• 1/4 C finely chopped candied ginger

1. Place all the ingredients in a medium sized pot over low heat, starting with the lesser amount of sugar. Stir constantly until all of the sugar is dissolved.
2. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the rhubarb pieces fall apart. When the compote is about as thick as applesauce, turn off the heat and add ginger. Stir until well incorporated.
3. Taste, and add additional sugar if you desire more sweetness. Keep in mind, though, that the sour flavor is part of what is special about rhubarb. If you do add additional sugar, return the heat to low and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved.
4. Fill freezer containers with the rhubarb jam, leaving an inch of head space. Small containers no larger than a pint are recommended, so that when you thaw one it isn't an overwhelming amount of jam to use up. Alternatively, fill quart size freezer bags with 8 to 16 ounces of the jam.

Rhubarb jam will keep in the freezer for up to 6 months. It is still safe to eat after that but the quality will decline. Freshly made, unfrozen rhubarb jam will keep in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.