Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups of nannyberries
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
Special Equipment Needed:
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Potato masher
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Water bath canner
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Rinse the nannyberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine the nannyberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
3. Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the berries release their juices.
4. Mash the berries with a potato masher to break them down into smaller pieces.
5. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the jam for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
7. To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and let it cool. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it's done.
8. Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool for 5-10 minutes.
9. Ladle the hot jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
10. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids and bands on top.
11. Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes.
12. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel-lined countertop.
13. Check the seals on the jars after they have cooled. The lids should be concave and not move when pressed.
14. Label and store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for cooking, boiling water bath canner for processing.
Serving size:
This recipe makes approximately 4 cups of jam, or 8 half-pint jars.
Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 40
Total fat: 0g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 10mg
Total carbohydrates: 10g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 10g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- If nannyberries are not available, you can use other types of berries such as blueberries, raspberries, or blackberries.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a natural sweetener.
- Lime juice and zest can be used instead of lemon for a different flavor profile.
- You can omit the cinnamon and nutmeg if you prefer a simpler jam.
Variations:
- Add a tablespoon of vanilla extract or almond extract for extra flavor.
- Mix in chopped nuts or dried fruit for texture and crunch.
- Use brown sugar instead of white sugar for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes for a spicy kick.
Tips and Tricks:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and sticking.
- Stir the jam frequently to prevent scorching.
- Use a potato masher or immersion blender to adjust the texture of the jam.
- Sterilize the canning jars and lids before use to prevent contamination.
- Use a funnel to fill the jars and avoid spills.
- Remove any air bubbles from the jars before processing.
- Store the jars in a cool, dark place away from sunlight.
Storage Instructions:
Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Reheating Instructions:
To reheat the jam, place the desired amount in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on high for 30 seconds to 1 minute, or until warm.
Presentation Ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish with a spoon for spreading on toast, biscuits, or scones.
Garnishes:
Garnish the jam with a sprig of fresh mint or a slice of lemon for a pop of color.
Pairings:
Nannyberry jam pairs well with buttery croissants, warm muffins, or a cheese plate.
Suggested Side Dishes:
Serve the jam with a side of fresh fruit or a cup of tea for a light breakfast or snack.
Troubleshooting Advice:
- If the jam is too thin, simmer 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.
- If the jam doesn't set properly, you can reprocess the jars or use the jam as a sauce or topping instead.
Food Safety Advice:
- Always use clean, sterilized equipment when making and canning jam.
- Follow proper canning procedures to prevent contamination and spoilage.
- Discard any jars that have broken seals or show signs of mold or spoilage.
- Store the jars in a cool, dark place away from sunlight.
Food History:
Nannyberries are a type of wild fruit that grows in North America. They have been used by Native American tribes for centuries for their medicinal and culinary properties. Nannyberry jam is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations.
Flavor Profiles:
Nannyberry jam has a sweet and tart flavor with hints of lemon, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve the jam on toast, biscuits, or scones for breakfast or brunch. It can also be used as a glaze for meats or as a topping for ice cream or yogurt.
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