Ingredients with Measurements:
- 2 cups raspberries
- 2 cups blueberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon butter
Special equipment needed:
- Large pot
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Canning funnel
- Jar lifter
- Bubble remover tool
- Water bath canner
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Wash the raspberries and blueberries and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well.
3. Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sugar dissolves.
4. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer the jam for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jam.
7. Test the jam for doneness by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it is done.
8. Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the butter to reduce foaming.
9. Ladle the hot jam into hot, sterilized canning jars, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
10. Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
11. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and place the lids and bands on top, tightening the bands until they are snug.
12. Process the jars in a boiling water bath canner for 10 minutes.
13. Remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a wire rack.
14. Check the seals on the jars by pressing down on the center of the lid. If it pops back up, the jar is not sealed and should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
15. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Temperature:
Medium heat for dissolving sugar and simmering the jam.
Serving size:
This recipe makes about 4 cups of jam, or 8 half-pint jars.
Nutritional information:
Serving size: 1 tablespoon
Calories: 50
Total fat: 0g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Total carbohydrates: 13g
Dietary fiber: 0.5g
Sugars: 12g
Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can use other types of berries, such as strawberries or blackberries, instead of raspberries or blueberries.
- You can use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, spicy flavor.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for a sweet, floral flavor.
- Add a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a tangy, complex flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a wide, heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the jam from burning or sticking.
- Stir the jam frequently to prevent scorching.
- Use a canning funnel to fill the jars easily and cleanly.
- Use a jar lifter to remove the hot jars from the canner safely.
- Label the jars with the date and type of jam for easy identification.
Storage instructions:
Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to a year.
Reheating instructions:
To use the jam, simply open the jar and spoon out the desired amount. You can heat it in a microwave-safe dish or on the stove over low heat if desired.
Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small dish or jar with a spoon for spreading.
Garnishes:
Garnish the jam with fresh berries or a sprig of mint for a pop of color.
Pairings:
This jam pairs well with toast, scones, biscuits, or yogurt.
Suggested side dishes:
Serve the jam with a side of fresh fruit or a cheese plate for a balanced snack or breakfast.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too runny, you may not have cooked it long enough. Return it to the heat and simmer for a few more minutes, then test it again.
- If the jam is too thick, you may have cooked it too long. Add a splash of water or lemon juice and stir well to thin it out.
Food safety advice:
- Always use clean, sterilized jars and equipment to prevent contamination.
- Follow proper canning procedures to ensure a safe, shelf-stable product.
- Discard any jars that do not seal properly or show signs of spoilage, such as mold or off odors.
Food history:
Jams and preserves have been a popular way to preserve fruit for centuries. The addition of sugar helps to preserve the fruit and create a sweet, spreadable product. Raspberry-blueberry jam is a delicious combination of two classic summer berries.
Flavor profiles:
This jam is sweet and tart, with a bright berry flavor and a hint of lemon.
Serving suggestions:
Spread the jam on toast, muffins, or bagels for a quick and easy breakfast. It also makes a great topping for ice cream or pancakes.
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