Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups blackberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 vanilla bean, split and scraped
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Canning funnel
- Jar lifter
- Magnetic lid lifter
- Bubble remover tool
- Water bath canner
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Prepare canning jars by washing them in hot, soapy water and sterilizing them in a water bath canner.
2. In a large pot, combine blackberries, sugar, vanilla bean seeds and pod, and lemon juice. Stir to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency.
5. Remove vanilla bean pod and discard.
6. Using an immersion blender, puree the mixture until smooth.
7. Return the pot to the stove and bring the mixture back to a boil over medium-high heat.
8. Cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until the jam reaches the desired thickness.
9. Remove from heat and let cool for 5 minutes.
10. Using a canning funnel, ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
11. Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
12. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth.
13. Place lids and bands on the jars, tightening the bands until finger-tight.
14. Using a jar lifter, place the jars in a water bath canner and process for 10 minutes.
15. Remove jars from the canner and let cool on a towel-lined surface for 24 hours.
16. Check the seals on the jars and store in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Time:
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling and medium-low heat for simmering
Serving size:
This recipe makes approximately 4-5 half-pint jars of jam.
Nutritional information:
Per serving (1 tablespoon):
Calories: 35
Total Fat: 0g
Sodium: 0mg
Total Carbohydrates: 9g
Sugars: 8g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Blackberries can be substituted with raspberries, blueberries, or strawberries.
- Vanilla bean can be substituted with 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Substitute lime juice for lemon juice for a tangy twist.
- Add a tablespoon of bourbon for a boozy kick.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the jam from scorching.
- Stir the jam frequently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches the proper temperature for setting.
- To test if the jam is set, place a small amount on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready.
- Use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor and texture.
Storage instructions:
Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
Reheating instructions:
To reheat the jam, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 15-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until warm.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon, or spread it on toast or biscuits.
Garnishes:
Garnish with a sprig of fresh mint or a few fresh blackberries.
Pairings:
Pair with toast, biscuits, scones, or croissants.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve with a cup of coffee or tea.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water or lemon juice to thin it out.
- If the jam is too thin, return it to the stove and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring constantly, until it thickens.
Food safety advice:
- Follow proper canning procedures to ensure the jars are properly sealed and safe for consumption.
- Discard any jars that do not seal properly.
- Store opened jars in the refrigerator and consume within 2-3 weeks.
Food history:
Jam-making has been a popular method of preserving fruit for centuries. The addition of sugar helps to preserve the fruit and create a sweet, spreadable condiment.
Flavor profiles:
This blackberry-vanilla jam is sweet and tangy with a subtle vanilla flavor.
Serving suggestions:
Serve this jam with breakfast or brunch, or use it as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
Related Categories
Cooking Method: N/A
Course Type: N/A
Dietary: N/A
Ingredient: N/A
Meal type: N/A
Occassion: N/A
Region: N/A