Jam and marmalade are types of fruit preserves. Both use similar ingredients and also follow the same method of preparation which includes boiling the fruit, mashing and pureeing it, after which it is cooked in a sugar and water mixture. The taste of both these preserves, is however, very different. While the jam is sweet, the marmalade imparts a bitter sweet and tangy flavor.

Imparting a sweet fruity flavor, the jam is made from purees of fruits such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, plums, peaches, apricots, mangoes, apples, etc. Some jams may also contain pieces of the fruit from which it is made. Sugar and pectin, a gelling agent, are added to obtain a smooth spreadable texture and thickness. Citric acid is used as a preservative.

Marmalade is more like jelly and uses only the pulp and juices of citrus fruits. Here too, sugar and pectin are added. But unlike jam where fruit pieces are added, marmalade uses rinds of citrus fruits that are suspended in the mass. These rinds add a deliciously mild bitter flavor to the sweet and tangy marmalade. Marmalades are largely made from a range of citrus fruits including lemon, pineapple and oranges.

The jam and the marmalade, both, make a delicious addition to your breakfast when applied on a slice of plain bread or on a slice of hot toast.