This recipe is adapted from Putting Food By, one of Eugenia Bone's favorite preserving books. Try spooning some of the jam on top of ricotta as an hors d'oeuvre—unexpected and delicious. Slideshow: Terrific Jam Recipes
How to Make It
In a large enameled cast-iron casserole or heavy pot, combine the carrots, sugar, lemon zest, lemon juice and salt; mix well. Wrap the cinnamon sticks and cloves in a double layer of cheesecloth and tie into a bundle. Tuck the bundle into the carrots. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Add the nutmeg and 1/2 cup of water to the carrots and bring to a boil. Cook over moderately high heat, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are shiny and the liquid is syrupy, about 40 minutes. Discard the spice bundle. Let the carrot jam cool to room temperature, then refrigerate.