5 Creative Ways to Use Orange Marmalade in Your Recipes

Orange marmalade jam is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a versatile ingredient for various dishes beyond just spreading it on toast. Whether you want to enhance your desserts, add a citrusy punch to savory dishes, or create unique marinades, orange marmalade can be your go-to secret ingredient. In this blog, we will explore five creative ways to use orange marmalade in your recipes, transforming your everyday meals into gourmet delights.

1. Glaze for Meats and Roasts

One of the best ways to use orange marmalade is as a glaze for meats like chicken, pork, and even fish. The natural sweetness and citrusy zest add depth and caramelization to your roasts, making them irresistibly delicious.

Recipe: Orange Marmalade Glazed Chicken

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix orange marmalade, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, garlic, and olive oil.
3. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper, then brush the glaze generously over them.
4. Place the chicken in a baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes, basting with more glaze halfway through.
5. Serve hot with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad.

This glaze can also be used for pork chops, salmon, or turkey, adding a rich and flavorful twist to your protein dishes.

2. Citrusy Salad Dressing

Orange marmalade can be transformed into a zesty and refreshing salad dressing that pairs perfectly with leafy greens, nuts, and cheese. The natural citrus flavor enhances the freshness of salads, making them more appetizing.

Recipe: Orange Marmalade Vinaigrette

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon honey (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a jar, combine all ingredients and shake well until emulsified.
2. Drizzle over your favorite salad, such as a spinach and goat cheese salad or an arugula and walnut salad.
3. Toss well and serve immediately.

This dressing also works as a marinade for grilled vegetables or a dip for fresh fruit slices.

3. Baking Delight: Orange Marmalade Muffins

Adding orange marmalade to baked goods like muffins enhances their flavor, making them moist and delicious with a slight citrusy kick.

Recipe: Orange Marmalade Muffins

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1/2 cup sugar
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup orange marmalade
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter, melted
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and line a muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt.
3. In another bowl, whisk orange marmalade, milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla extract.
4. Gradually mix the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients until just combined.
5. Spoon the batter into the muffin tin, filling each cup about 3/4 full.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
7. Let cool and enjoy your citrusy muffins.

These muffins are perfect for breakfast, snacks, or even as a delightful gift for family and friends.

4. Savory Sandwich Spread

If you love sandwiches with a mix of sweet and savory flavors, using orange marmalade as a spread can elevate your sandwiches to a gourmet level. It pairs exceptionally well with turkey, ham, cheese, and even grilled vegetables.

Recipe: Gourmet Turkey & Cheese Sandwich

Ingredients:

• 2 slices of whole-grain bread
• 2 tablespoons orange marmalade
• 4 slices of turkey breast
• 2 slices of Swiss or cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup arugula or lettuce
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling, optional)

Instructions:

1. Spread orange marmalade on one slice of bread and Dijon mustard on the other.
2. Layer turkey, cheese, and arugula on top.
3. Close the sandwich and grill it in a pan with butter for a crispy texture (optional).
4. Slice in half and enjoy a sweet and savory sandwich delight.

This spread also works well with grilled cheese sandwiches and gourmet burgers.

5. Cocktail Mixer for Refreshing Drinks

Orange marmalade can be used as a flavorful ingredient in cocktails and mocktails, adding a citrusy depth to drinks.

Recipe: Orange Marmalade Whiskey Sour

Ingredients:

• 2 ounces bourbon or whiskey
• 1 tablespoon orange marmalade
• 3/4 ounce lemon juice
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup
• Ice cubes
• Orange slice and cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a cocktail shaker, combine whiskey, orange marmalade, lemon juice, and simple syrup.
2. Add ice and shake well for about 15 seconds.
3. Strain into a glass with fresh ice.
4. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry, then serve.

This cocktail is perfect for parties, gatherings, or a relaxing evening at home.

Conclusion

Orange marmalade is more than just a breakfast spread; it is a versatile ingredient that can enhance both sweet and savory dishes. Whether you use it as a glaze, dressing, baking ingredient, sandwich spread, or cocktail mixer, its vibrant citrus flavor adds a delightful twist to your meals. Try these creative ways to use orange marmalade and bring a burst of flavor to your kitchen.

Do you have a favorite recipe using orange marmalade? Share your thoughts in the comments below!