What does stir down mean when cooking jam?

When cooking jam, "stir down" refers to the process of stirring the mixture gently. This helps to prevent the fruit pieces from sticking to the bottom of the pan and burning, which can affect the texture and taste of the jam.

As you stir down, you should use a wooden spoon or heatproof spatula to carefully stir the jam in a downward motion. This helps to distribute the heat evenly and prevent the mixture from becoming scorched or sticking.

Stirring the jam also aids in incorporating any pectin, if it has been added, and distributes the sugar throughout the mixture. It helps to ensure that all the ingredients are well-combined and that the jam cooks evenly.

When you stir down, it's important to do so gently to avoid breaking down the fruit pieces or disrupting the gel formation. Stirring too vigorously or excessively can also cause the jam to lose some of its natural color and vibrancy.

As the jam starts to thicken, you may need to stir down more frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Just be sure to use gentle movements and avoid over-stirring.