Microwaved apricot jam

Place the frozen apricots in a 5 litre microwaveproof dish and microwave for 5 minutes on 100 per cent power until the apricots just begin to defrost. Weigh out 1 kg of apricots (if you have frozen more than 1 kg) and place in the microwaveproof dish. Return excess to freezer. Place a fairly large knob of butter on top and cover the dish with a plate. Microwave for 13 minutes on 100 per cent power. Remove the dish from microwave oven and remove the plate carefully, taking care not to burn yourself. Stir in the sugar until it has dissolved. Cover the mixture with the plate again and microwave for another 13 minutes on 100 per cent power. Stir once more and microwave for another 13 minutes on 100 per cent power. Cool slightly before spooning the mixture into clean, sterilised jars. Cool completely and cover with rounds of wax paper dipped in brandy or with plastic wrap and tighten the lids.
Makes 1-1,5 litres.