Blackberry Ginger Jam

Blackberry Ginger Jam

Blackberry Ginger Jam is a delightful fusion of sweet, tart blackberries and the warm, spicy notes of fresh ginger. This jam offers a unique twist on traditional fruit preserves, elevating the humble blackberry with a zesty kick that tantalizes the taste buds.

Perfect for spreading on toast, dolloping on yogurt, or even using as a glaze for meats, this jam brings a burst of flavor to any dish.

The combination of berries and ginger not only creates a delicious condiment but also provides a vibrant color and aroma that will fill your kitchen with a warm, inviting scent. Let’s dive into the process of making this scrumptious jam from scratch!

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh blackberries (about 2 pints), washed
• 1 cup granulated sugar (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, peeled and grated
• 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (such as Sure-Jell)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon (optional)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

How to Make

Step 1: Prepare the Blackberries

Wash the Berries: Rinse the blackberries under cold water and gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Check for any stems or leaves and remove them.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

Mix Berries and Sugar: In a large mixing bowl, combine the blackberries and granulated sugar. Gently stir to coat the berries in sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the berries to release their juices.

Add Lemon Juice and Ginger: Stir in the freshly squeezed lemon juice and grated ginger. The lemon juice not only enhances the flavor but also helps preserve the jam.

Step 3: Cook the Jam

Heat the Mixture: Transfer the berry mixture to a large pot and place it over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Add Pectin: Once the mixture is simmering, stir in the fruit pectin. Bring it to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down. Boil for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to dissolve the pectin.

Add Spices: If desired, add the ground cinnamon and salt. Stir well to combine. The spices will enhance the overall flavor profile of the jam.

Step 4: Test for Doneness

Check Consistency: To check if your jam has reached the right consistency, drop a spoonful onto a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; if it holds its shape and does not run back together, it’s ready. If it’s still too runny, boil for an additional minute and test again.

Step 5: Jar the Jam

Prepare Jars: While the jam is cooking, sterilize your canning jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Let them dry upside down on a clean towel.

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

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

Step 6: Process the Jars

Water Bath Canning: Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they seal properly and remain safe for storage.

Cool and Store: After processing, carefully 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

Blackberry Ginger Jam is incredibly versatile! Feel free to adjust the amount of ginger according to your taste preferences. If you love a strong ginger flavor, add more. You can also experiment with additional spices such as cardamom or cloves for a more complex flavor profile.

This jam pairs beautifully with cheeses, making it an excellent addition to a cheese board. It also works well as a topping for desserts, such as cheesecake or vanilla ice cream.

Nutritional Information (per tablespoon)

• Calories: 50
• Total Fat: 0g
• Sodium: 1mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 13g
• Dietary Fiber: 0g
• Sugars: 11g
• Protein: 0g
• Vitamin C: 5% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Vitamin A: 2% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Calcium: 0% of the Daily Value (DV)
• Iron: 0% of the Daily Value (DV)

Conclusion

Making Blackberry Ginger Jam at home is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy the vibrant flavors of summer all year round. The combination of sweet blackberries and spicy ginger creates a unique jam that will elevate your breakfast or snacks.

So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and savor the delightful process of crafting your own homemade jam. With each jar, you’ll be capturing a taste of summer that can be enjoyed anytime! Whether shared with friends or kept for yourself, this jam is sure to bring joy to your kitchen and your table.

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