How to Make Carrot Marmalade

Marie Overton
1 hour ago
3 min read

Nothing reminds me of family tradition like homemade carrot marmalade. The bitter and sweet flavors of orange and the earthy sweetness of carrots. This is a classic marmalade taste that has so much to offer.

Why Carrot Marmalade?

You might ask, why choose carrot marmalade over classic options like orange or strawberry? Here are a few reasons:

Nutritional Boost: Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, fiber, and antioxidants. They offer about 184% of the daily value of vitamin A in just one cup.
Unique Flavor: Carrots add a natural sweetness, vibrant color and interesting texture.

Ingredients You Will Need

Before diving in, gather these ingredients:

3 cups finely grated carrots (around 6 medium-sized carrots)
4 cup sugar
3 oranges
4 cups water
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1/4 tsp ground ginger (optional)
Jars for canning (half-pint size) and lids

Having everything prepped ensures a smooth cooking experience!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients

Food processor on a granite countertop with shredded carrots and beets inside. A hand holds a lid. Knife and peeler nearby.

Begin by washing and peeling the carrots.

Grate them finely to achieve the best flavor and texture. I like to use the food processor. Fresh carrots are ideal!

Hands peeling orange segments on a wooden cutting board, with two mugs of coffee in the background on a speckled countertop.

Cut the oranges in quarters.

Hands slicing oranges on a wooden board with coffee mugs nearby. Bright citrus peels and diced fruit on a granite countertop.

Dice up the pulp and the peel.

Hands chopping yellow fruit on a wooden board; peels and diced pieces visible. Marble countertop in background. Cups with oranges nearby.

Step 2: Cook the Carrots and Peel

In a large pot, place water and orange peel. Boil it until the peel is softened.

Remove from the heat and add the grated carrots. Simmer for 10 minutes.

Pot with chopped oranges, sugar, and a wooden spoon on a granite countertop. Nearby are a jug and a small bowl with ginger.

Then add the sugar, orange pulp, lemon juice, and ginger.

Bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir occasionally to keep it from sticking to the pot until it is nice and thick.

Step 3: Fill the Jars

Woman in an apron labeled "Marie" fills glass jars with soup using a ladle. Kitchen setting with a stovetop and pot in the background.

After achieving the right thickness, ladle the hot marmalade into your hot half pint jars. Leave about a 1/4-inch headspace at the top to allow for expansion during processing.

Use a chopstick to de-bubble the jars. This releases any trapped air bubbles.

Wipe the jar rims with a clean cloth to remove any residue, then secure the lids and rings until they are fingertip tight.

Step 4: Process the Jars

Now for the final step: processing. Place filled jars into the boiling water bath, ensuring they are covered by one-two inches of water.

Chalkboard sign with water bath timings for various altitudes. Jars and textured surface are visible. White text on a dark background.

Process for 10 minutes, adjusting for altitude if needed. Once done, turn off the heat, remove the lid and let the jars cool for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 8: Cool and Store

Person in apron uses tongs to handle hot jars of preserves on a kitchen counter. Stove with pots in background, warm and cozy atmosphere.

Remove jars from the water and place them on a heat resistant surface to cool completely. Allow them to sit undisturbed for 24 hours.

Store your jars in a cool, dark spot. If sealed correctly, they can last from 1-3 years. After that, the nutritional value begins to decrease.

Creative Uses for Your Marmalade

Now that your carrot marmalade is ready, how can you use it?

Spread it on toast for a delightful breakfast or snack.
Use it as a glaze for roasted meats or vegetables.
Swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal for an extra burst of flavor.
Incorporate it into homemade salad dressings for a hint of sweetness.

The possibilities are endless, so get creative with your marmalade!

Jars of orange-red preserves, an orange, colorful carrots on a cutting board, a patterned napkin, and a ceramic jug on a granite surface.

Enjoy Your Sweet Creation

Making carrot marmalade is an enjoyable project that can brighten up your kitchen and your meals! With its unique flavor and vibrant color, you’re sure to enjoy it.