Melon and Vanilla Jam

Peel and core the melon, then cut into uniform cubes. Mix the melon and the jam sugar in a large saucepan. Mix well, then let stand for 1 hour.

Remove large pieces of zest from half of an orange, being careful not to remove any of the bitter white pith. Squeeze the juice from the entre orange, then pass through a fine strainer.

Slit the vanilla bean lengthwise, and remove the seeds.

Rinse the jars in hot water, then drain on a kitchen towel.

Bring the fruit mixture, orange zest, vanilla seeds, and vanilla bean to a boil. Skim any foam that forms.

Cook unttil the fruit is soft, and mixture begins to gel. Remove the orange zest and vanilla bean. Puree the jam in a blender.