Preserves > Jams

Apple-Berry Jam Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups chopped apples
- 2 cups mixed berries (such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp salt

Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Immersion blender or food processor
- Canning jars and lids

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large pot, combine chopped apples, mixed berries, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir well to combine.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.

3. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the fruit is soft and the mixture has thickened.

4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

5. Using an immersion blender or food processor, blend the mixture until smooth.

6. Return the mixture to the pot and bring to a boil again.

7. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the jam has thickened to your desired consistency.

8. Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes.

9. Ladle the jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.

10. Wipe the rims of the jars clean and place the lids on top.

11. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.

12. Remove the jars from the water bath and let cool completely.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Temperature:
Medium-high heat and low heat
Serving size:
Makes about 4 cups of jam

Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tbsp
Calories: 40
Total fat: 0g
Sodium: 10mg
Total carbohydrates: 10g
Sugars: 9g
Protein: 0g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use any type of apple you prefer, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.
- You can use any type of mixed berries you prefer, such as blackberries or cherries.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar used.

Variations:
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for a different flavor profile.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Use brown sugar instead of granulated sugar for a richer flavor.

Tips and tricks:
- Be sure to stir the jam frequently to prevent it from burning.
- If the jam is too thick, you can add a splash of water to thin it out.
- Use a funnel to make it easier to fill the canning jars.

Storage instructions:
Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the jam, simply remove it from the jar and heat it in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon for spreading.

Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of apple.

Pairings:
This jam pairs well with toast, scones, or biscuits.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a side of yogurt or cottage cheese for a balanced breakfast.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thin, you can return it to the pot and let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the jam is too thick, you can add a splash of water to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
Be sure to sterilize the canning jars and lids before using to prevent the growth of bacteria.

Food history:
Jam-making has been a popular way to preserve fruit for centuries.

Flavor profiles:
This jam has a sweet and slightly tart flavor with warm spices.

Serving suggestions:
Spread the jam on toast or use it as a filling for pastries and cakes.

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Taste: Sweet, Tart, Fruity, Tangy, Jammy