Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups thimbleberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 packet pectin
Special equipment needed:
- Canning jars with lids and bands
- Large pot for boiling jars
- Canning funnel
- Ladle
- Jar lifter
- Bubble remover tool
Step-by-step instructions:
1. Rinse thimbleberries in cold water and remove any stems or leaves.
2. In a large pot, combine thimbleberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well and let sit for 30 minutes.
3. Place pot on medium-high heat and bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
4. Add pectin to the pot and continue stirring until mixture returns to a boil.
5. Boil for 1 minute, then remove from heat.
6. Using a canning funnel and ladle, fill sterilized jars with hot jam mixture, leaving 1/4 inch of headspace.
7. Use a bubble remover tool to remove any air bubbles from the jars.
8. Wipe rims of jars with a clean, damp cloth and place lids and bands on jars.
9. Place jars in a large pot of boiling water, making sure they are covered by at least 1 inch of water.
10. Boil jars for 10 minutes, then use a jar lifter to remove them from the pot and place them on a towel to cool.
11. Once jars are cool, check seals by pressing on the center of the lid. If it pops up and down, the jar did not seal properly and should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
12. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
- Time:
Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 15 minutes
Temperature:
- Medium-high heat
Serving size:
- Makes approximately 4 cups of jam
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 50 per tablespoon
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Protein: 0g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Thimbleberries can be substituted with raspberries or blackberries.
- Lemon juice can be substituted with lime juice.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced jam.
- Add chopped jalapenos for a spicy jam.
- Add chopped mint for a refreshing twist.
Tips and tricks:
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches 220°F for proper setting.
- Sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes before filling with jam.
- Use fresh, ripe fruit for the best flavor.
- Stir jam mixture constantly to prevent burning.
Storage instructions:
- Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year.
Reheating instructions:
- To reheat jam, place jar in a pot of simmering water until jam is warmed through.
Presentation ideas:
- Label jars with the date and type of jam.
- Tie a ribbon or twine around the jar for a decorative touch.
Garnishes:
- Fresh thimbleberries or other berries.
Pairings:
- Serve with toast, scones, or biscuits.
Suggested side dishes:
- Fresh fruit salad or yogurt.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If jam does not set properly, try re-boiling with an additional packet of pectin.
- If jam is too thick, add a small amount of water and reheat.
Food safety advice:
- Follow proper canning procedures to prevent spoilage and foodborne illness.
Food history:
- Thimbleberries are native to North America and were traditionally used by Native Americans for food and medicine.
Flavor profiles:
- Sweet, tart, and fruity.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve as a spread on toast or as a topping for ice cream.
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