Jams, Preserves and Chutneys

The Basic Basics book by Marguerite Patten is ideal for those who have never made jam, preserves or chutneys before. Although the book lacks any diagrams, Marguerite describes everything in clear detail and is easy to understand.I highly recommend reading the book before just picking a recipe and trying it, as there are some good tips, and a list of what to get. There are even a few recipes for those that want to make a more diabetic friendly jam.I get a sense of confidence in what I'm doing with this book, it doesn't make it seem as daunting as you think it will be if you follow her guidelines.

I got this book a few weeks ago. The recipes are very easy to follow & understand. It has all your favorites & some ive not heard of eg banana jam, which i intend to make very soon. This book is a excelent buy & i would recommend it to all who have never made jams etc before

If you want to pickle, preserve, make jam, chutney or cordials, this really is a must-have. I was recommended it by my brother & now I too swear by it - uses up all my excess & ever so slightly mankey garden produce. Marguerite's books are practical, inspiring & (I am glad to say) pretty much idiot-proof!! Give it a go.........PS: Her Baking book is fab, too - try the gingerbread... & the Shorites aer the easiest biccies I have ever made

All the information you need to start making your own jams and chutneys is here. You won't find glossy pictures - or any images at all, but what you will find is no-nonsense advice including all the things you might do wrong and what to do about them. Hundreds of recipes and variations means that anyone who wants to have a go at preserving will find this book invaluable. I have several other glossy perserving books but very often find they don't have detailed enough instructions for a relative beginner. This simple book has never let me down and has inspired me to try all sorts of preserves which thanks to the very straightforward advice have always turned out brilliantly. Simply a must have.

Having just moved house, I decided to buy this book to make use of the various fruit trees in my garden. I've already made some great jams, especially the black cherry conserve which was delicious! This book is fantastic, the recipes are easy to follow and for the novice jam maker it gives you all the details on how to create the perfect jam.