Blueberry jam

Homemade blueberry jam – a pure delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 10 jars of 400 g

On a warm summer day, I discovered the delight of blueberry jam, a traditional recipe that revives sweet memories and brings a touch of joy to every family's table. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for preserving the taste of fresh berries throughout the year. Whether you use it to indulge in breakfast or to complement a refined dessert, blueberry jam will bring a smile to anyone's face.

Necessary ingredients:
- 5 kg fresh blueberries
- 2 kg granulated sugar

Ingredient details:
Blueberries are not only delicious but also extremely healthy, rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals. Consuming blueberries can support heart and brain health. When choosing blueberries, make sure they are firm, without spots or soft areas. It is advisable to wash them well under cold running water to remove any impurities.

Sugar is not just a sweetener but also a natural preservative, essential in the jam-making process, helping to stabilize and thicken the mixture.

Together in the kitchen: an unforgettable experience
Making blueberry jam is a pleasant and interactive activity. I encourage you to involve family or friends in this culinary adventure! It’s a perfect opportunity to create memories and savor the flavors of summer together.

Step by step: Making blueberry jam
1. Preparing the blueberries: Start by washing the blueberries well under cold running water. Check them carefully to remove any leaves or spoiled berries. Once cleaned, let them drain well in a colander.

2. Cooking the blueberries: In a large pot, add the blueberries and sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir gently to combine the ingredients. It’s important not to let the mixture stick to the bottom of the pot, so use a wooden spatula to stir periodically.

3. Boiling the jam: Allow the mixture to boil for about 30-40 minutes. You will notice that the blueberry juice will start to evaporate, and the jam will thicken. To check the consistency, take a spoonful of jam and place it on a plate. Let it sit for a few seconds and then tilt the plate. If the jam doesn’t run, it’s ready!

4. Bottling: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool for 10-15 minutes. Meanwhile, prepare the cleaned and sterilized jars. Use a wooden crate or a piece of tile under the pot to avoid burning if you are using a direct heat source, like a stove.

5. Filling the jars: Using a spoon or a ladle, fill each jar with jam, leaving a bit of space at the top. Seal them with lids and turn them upside down to create a vacuum, thus helping to preserve the jam.

Useful tips for perfect jam:
- Don’t rush! The cooking process may take time, but patience is key. A quality jam requires time.
- You can customize the jam by adding a drop of lemon juice to enhance the flavor and aid in preservation.
- Experiment! You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves for a more complex flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why does the jam thicken after it cools?
The jam thickens as it cools due to the pectins in the fruit and sugar, which form a gelatinous network.

2. Can I use frozen blueberries?
Yes, you can use frozen blueberries, but make sure to let them thaw and drain well before using.

3. How can I check if the jam is well-cooked?
The plate test is an effective method; if the jam doesn’t run and holds its shape on the plate, it’s ready.

4. How long can the jam be preserved?
If prepared and bottled correctly, the jam can be stored for up to a year under proper conditions.

Serving and pairing suggestions:
Blueberry jam is delicious on a slice of toasted bread or on fluffy pancakes. It can also be used to fill pastries or to complement yogurt, adding a touch of natural sweetness. Combined with cottage cheese or goat cheese, it offers a savory contrast, perfect for a refined snack.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of blueberry jam (approximately 20 g) contains about 50-60 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. Blueberries are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to heart health, immune system support, and improved memory.

I encourage you to try this blueberry jam recipe, enjoy every step of the process, and most importantly, savor your creation with loved ones. This delicacy is not just a jam but an unforgettable experience that will bring a piece of your summer into every jar!