Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 kg fresh bilberries
- 500 g granulated sugar
- 1 lemon, juiced
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Jam jars with lids
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse the bilberries in cold water and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine the bilberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the sugar dissolves.
4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until it thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency.
6. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
7. Using a ladle, pour the jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
8. Seal the jars tightly with their lids and let them cool to room temperature.
9. Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium heat for dissolving sugar
- High heat for boiling
- Low heat for simmering
Serving size:
- Makes about 4-5 small jars of jam
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 50 per tablespoon
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Blueberries or blackberries can be used instead of bilberries.
- Lime juice can be used instead of lemon juice.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced flavor.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of honey for a natural sweetener.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the jam to prevent it from sticking to the pot.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jam while cooking.
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a plate and let it cool. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it's ready.
Storage instructions:
- Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Once opened, store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 1 month.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat the jam, place the jar in a pot of simmering water until it's warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Label the jars with the date and flavor of the jam.
- Tie a ribbon or twine around the jar for a decorative touch.
Garnishes:
- Fresh bilberries or other berries can be used as a garnish.
Pairings:
- Bilberry jam pairs well with toast, scones, or biscuits.
Suggested side dishes:
- Serve the jam with a side of butter or cream cheese.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too runny, cook it for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to sterilize the jars and lids before using them to prevent contamination.
- Store the jam in a cool, dark place to prevent spoilage.
Food history:
- Bilberries have been used for centuries in traditional medicine for their health benefits.
Flavor profiles:
- Bilberry jam has a sweet and tart flavor with a hint of earthiness.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the jam as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
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