How to Make Homemade Mandarin Preserves – A Simple and Delicious Recipe

Introduction
If you love mandarins and enjoy homemade preserves, you’re in for a treat! Preserving mandarins is an easy and satisfying process that lets you enjoy their sweet, citrusy goodness all year round. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to make delicious mandarin preserves step by step, including tips on selecting the best fruit, sterilizing jars, and ensuring your preserves last a long time.

Why Make Mandarin Preserves?
Mandarins are a fantastic fruit for preserving because they are easy to peel, often seedless, and have a naturally sweet flavor. They make a great addition to desserts, breakfast dishes, and even savory recipes. Plus, preserving mandarins is a cost-effective way to reduce waste and enjoy seasonal fruit throughout the year.
Choosing the Best Mandarins for Preserving
When selecting mandarins, look for ones that are:
Fresh and firm with bright, smooth skin
Free from mold or spoilage
Easy to peel (such as clementines or satsumas)
Preferably untreated with chemicals (if using the peels)
Avoid using overripe or damaged fruit, as they can affect the quality of your preserves.
What You’ll Need
To make mandarin preserves, you will need:
1 kg of mandarins (approximately 3-4 jars of 420ml each)
Sugar (to taste, usually 1-2 tablespoons per jar)
Boiling water
Sterilized glass jars with lids
Large pot for boiling
Towel or cardboard (to prevent jars from cracking during boiling)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Mandarins
Peel the mandarins and separate them into segments.
Inspect each piece to ensure there are no seeds or spoiled sections.
2. Sterilize the Jars and Lids
Wash the glass jars and lids thoroughly with hot, soapy water.

Rinse well and allow them to air dry.
Boil the jars for a few minutes or place them in a preheated oven at 100°C (212°F) for about 10 minutes.
3. Fill the Jars
Pack the mandarin segments into the jars, leaving a small gap at the top.
Add sugar according to your preference.
Pour boiling water over the fruit, ensuring all segments are submerged.
4. Seal and Process the Jars
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth.
Place the lids on tightly but not too tight to allow for air expansion.

Place jars in a large pot lined with a towel or cardboard to prevent direct contact with the bottom.
Fill the pot with warm water, covering the jars up to their necks.
Heat to 95°C (203°F) and process for 18-20 minutes.
5. Cooling and Storage
Carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a towel to cool.
Let them sit undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
Check that the lids are sealed properly (they should not pop when pressed).
Store in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Tips for Success
Check your lids: If you’re reusing lids, make sure they are in good condition. Avoid using ones with visible rust, mold, or damaged rubber seals.
Use sugar wisely: Sugar not only sweetens but also helps preserve the fruit. You can adjust the amount based on your preference.
Label your jars: Mark them with the date of preparation to track their shelf life.
Repurpose peels: If you’re sure the mandarins are untreated, you can dry the peels for teas, zest, or homemade citrus cleaners.
Final Thoughts
Making homemade mandarin preserves is a rewarding and simple way to enjoy citrus flavors all year long. Whether you use them for desserts, as a snack, or even in drinks, these preserves are a great addition to any pantry. Try this method and enjoy the taste of mandarins anytime!