Blueberry jam

Blueberry jam - an aromatic delight for your winter

When it comes to winter preparations, many of us think of preserves, pickles, and of course, jams and jellies. A blueberry jam made from ripe, fragrant fruits will not only bring a smile to your face every morning but will also fill your pantry with a sweet joy that reminds you of sunny summer days. This recipe is not only simple but also charming, giving you the chance to enjoy the natural flavors of cultivated blueberries even on chilly winter days.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Depends on the size of the jars, but approximately 10 jars of 400g each.

Ingredients:
- 5 kg fresh, ripe cultivated blueberries
- 1.5 kg sugar (preferably granulated sugar, which dissolves more easily)
- Juice from one fresh lemon

A bit of history:
Jams and jellies were created centuries ago as a way to preserve fruits for winter. This was a necessity for many communities that did not have access to fresh fruits year-round. Today, jams have become not just a staple food but also a delicacy, served at breakfast, between meals, or as an ingredient in various desserts.

Preparing the blueberries:
1. Wash and clean the blueberries: Start by washing the blueberries well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are clean, as impurities can affect the flavor of the jam. Choose only ripe fruits, free of spots or signs of damage, to achieve a high-quality jam.
2. Draining the water: After washing, drain them well, leaving them in a colander for a few minutes.

Making the jam:
3. Initial mixture: Place the blueberries in a large stainless steel pot with a thick bottom, along with the sugar. This type of pot helps distribute heat evenly and prevents the jam from sticking to the bottom. Let the mixture sit for a few hours so that the blueberries release their juice and the sugar begins to dissolve.
4. Boiling the jam: Once a few hours have passed, place the pot on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the fruits from sticking. It’s important to be patient, as slow boiling allows the flavors to develop and concentrate.
5. Testing the consistency: After about an hour of boiling, take a plate and put a few drops of jam on it. Let it cool for a few seconds and then tilt the plate. If the jam does not run too quickly, you have reached the desired consistency. If it is still too liquid, continue boiling, stirring constantly.

Finalizing the jam:
6. Adding lemon juice: Once you have achieved the desired consistency, add the juice from one lemon. This will not only enhance the flavor of the jam but will also help preserve it due to its natural acidity.
7. Filling the jars: Take well-washed and dried jars, fill them with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Place the lids on the jars and cover them with a blanket, allowing them to cool slowly. This step helps create a vacuum, essential for preserving the jam.

Storage:
After the jars have completely cooled, you can store them in a cool, dark place. Thus, your blueberry jam will be ready to delight you throughout the winter.

Useful tips:
- Sweetening: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but be careful not to lower it too much, as sugar plays an important role in preservation.
- Variations: You can add a splash of vanilla or cinnamon to give the jam a unique flavor. You can also combine blueberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries, for a mixed jam.
- Serving: Blueberry jam is delicious on toast but can also be used as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or yogurt.

Nutritional information:
Blueberry jam is a good source of antioxidants and vitamins, especially vitamin C. Although it is high in sugar, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet. A 100g serving of blueberry jam contains approximately 250 calories.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How long does the jam last?
If stored properly, blueberry jam can last up to a year in the pantry.
2. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
3. How do I know if the jam is spoiled?
If you see mold or a bad smell, it is better not to consume the jam.

I invite you to try this blueberry jam recipe and fill your pantry with a touch of summer, even on the coldest winter days. Whether you give it as a gift to a loved one or enjoy it with a cup of tea, blueberry jam will surely become an essential part of your culinary ritual. Enjoy your meal!