Begin by slicing the dragon fruit in half lengthwise. Scoop out the flesh carefully, and you can preserve the skin for an aesthetic serving option.
In a medium saucepan, mix the dragon fruit pulp with sugar. Over medium heat, let it simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. This process should take about 30 minutes, but if the mixture isn't thickening, proceed to the next step. Once thickened, stir in the lemon juice and cook for an additional two minutes.
To help thicken the jam, prepare a cornstarch slurry by mixing two tablespoons of cold water with one tablespoon of cornstarch. Stir this into the jam and continue cooking until the desired consistency is achieved.
Remove from heat and allow the jam to cool completely. Transfer it into a sterilized glass jar and store it in the refrigerator. This jam can be enjoyed for up to two weeks.
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Dragon fruit, also known as pitaya, is a tropical fruit known for its unique appearance and vibrant colors. It typically has a bright pink or yellow skin with green scale-like protrusions and a white or red flesh speckled with small black seeds. Dragon fruit is native to Central America but is now grown in several Southeast Asian countries, like Vietnam and Thailand.
The taste of dragon fruit is often described as a blend of a pear and a kiwi. It has a mildly sweet flavor with a subtly earthy note and a creamy texture. The seeds provide a slight crunch, adding to its unique eating experience. Despite its bold appearance, the fruit's flavor is surprisingly subtle, making it versatile for use in various culinary applications, from smoothies to jams.