Honey-Pear Preserves With Ginger

This is adapted from "Putting it up with Honey" by Susan Geiskopf. Use this on toast or English muffins, or on pancakes.

• Ready In: 50 mins
• Serves: 20
• Yields: 5 half-pint jars

Ingredients

• 4  cups pears, peeled and coarsely chopped (about 8 pears)
• 2 1⁄2 cups honey
• 1⁄4 teaspoon salt
• 1  lemon, finely diced (peel and all)
• 2  inches gingerroot

Directions

1. Wash and sterilize 5 half-pint canning jars and rings.
2. Combine all ingredients except ginger root.
3. Cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is of spreading consistency.
4. Spoon hot mixture into hot sterilized jars to within 1/2-inch from top.
5. Slice ginger root (no need to peel) into 5 slices. Add a slice of ginger to each jar, pushing it into the preserves.
6. Seal with new lids and rings and process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes.
7. Remove from water and listen for "ping" to make sure the jars seal. Store in a cool, dark spot. Let sit to age and get ginger flavor melded, for about 1-2 weeks before using.