Ginger Pear Preserves

10 cups pears, prepared
1 1/2 Tbsp. grated lime rind
1/2 cup fresh lime juice (about 4 limes)
4 cups sugar
3 Tbsp. fresh ginger, grated

Fill boiling water canner with water. Place 7 clean 250 mL mason jars in canner and sterilise for 10 minutes.
Peel and chop pears. Measure 10 cups.
Combine all ingredients in large stainless steel or enamel pot.
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then simmer on medium heat for 15 minutes or until thick, stirring often.
Mash preserves with a potato masher to alter texture.
Place lids in boiling water and boil 5 minutes to soften seal.
Ladle preserves into hot jars to within 1/4" of top rim. Remove air bubbles with a rubber spatula. Readjust headspace to 1/4".
Wipe jar rims to remove stickiness. Centre lids on jars and apply screwbands. Place jars in canner.
Cover canner and return water to a boil. Boil rapidly for 10 minutes. Remove jars and cool for 24 hours. Check seals, they should curve downwards.

Makes 7 - 250 mL jars

Adapted from the "Bernardin Guide to Home Preserving, 1995"