Mixed Berry Jam

Mixed Berry Jam

Homemade jam is a delightful way to preserve the flavors of summer and bring a taste of sunshine to your breakfast table all year round.

This Mixed Berry Jam combines the sweet and tangy notes of strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries, creating a vibrant spread that’s perfect for toast, yogurt, or as a filling in desserts.

Making your own jam might seem daunting, but with just a few simple ingredients and a little patience, you can craft a jar of deliciousness that’s free from preservatives and packed with flavor. Let’s dive into this easy, yet rewarding, recipe!

Ingredients

• 2 cups strawberries, hulled and sliced
• 1 cup blueberries, rinsed
• 1 cup raspberries, rinsed
• 1 cup blackberries, rinsed
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foam)

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

Wash the Berries: Rinse all the berries gently under cold water. Pat them dry with a clean towel.

Slice the Strawberries: Hull the strawberries and slice them into smaller pieces. This will help them break down more easily during cooking.

Step 2: Cook the Jam

Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the sliced strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries.

Add Sugar and Lemon Juice: Stir in the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Let the mixture sit for about 10 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juices.

Heat the Mixture: Place the pot over medium heat. Stir frequently until the sugar has dissolved completely and the mixture comes to a boil.

Add Pectin: Once boiling, stir in the fruit pectin. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for 1-2 minutes.

Test the Consistency: To check if your jam is set, drop a spoonful of the mixture onto a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; if it holds its shape, it’s ready. If not, boil for an additional minute and test again.

Step 3: Jar the Jam

Prepare Jars: While the jam is cooking, prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them in boiling water for 10 minutes. Let them dry upside down.

Add Butter (Optional): If you want to reduce foam, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of butter into the boiling jam.

Fill Jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims with a clean cloth to remove any residue.

Seal Jars: Place the sterilized lids on top and screw on the metal bands until they are fingertip-tight.

Step 4: Process the Jars

Water Bath Canning: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Make sure the water covers the jars by at least an inch.

Cool and Store: After processing, remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a clean towel or wire rack. You should hear the satisfying “pop” of the lids sealing as they cool. Once completely cooled, store the jam in a cool, dark place.

Chef’s Note

Feel free to customize this recipe by adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg, or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for an extra depth of flavor. If you prefer a smoother jam, you can blend the fruit before cooking it. Remember, the key to a great jam is quality fruit, so use the freshest berries you can find!

Nutritional Information (per tablespoon)

• Calories: 50
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 0.5g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 0g
• Vitamin C: 10% of the Daily Value (DV)

Conclusion

Making Mixed Berry Jam at home is a fun and satisfying project that yields a delicious result. Whether enjoyed on toast, swirled into yogurt, or used as a filling for pastries, this jam brings a taste of summer to your kitchen. So grab your favorite berries and get started—you’ll be enjoying your homemade jam in no time!

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