Blueberry jam

Blueberry Jam – A Homemade Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Maceration time: 4-5 hours
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total: Approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 8 jars

I invite you to discover the perfect recipe for homemade blueberry jam, a delight that will remind you of the aroma of summer, even on cold winter days. Blueberry jam is not just a treat, but also an excellent way to preserve seasonal fruits. With an intense flavor and unmistakable fragrance, this recipe is simple and full of taste.

Necessary ingredients:

- 2.5 kg of fresh blueberries
- 1 kg of sugar
- Juice and zest of one lemon (preferably organic, to avoid pesticides)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar

Details about the ingredients:

Blueberries are fruits rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as fiber. Their consumption has numerous nutritional benefits, including improving heart health and cognitive function. When choosing blueberries, look for firm fruits with a dark blue color to ensure they are ripe and juicy.

Sugar not only sweetens but also helps preserve the jam, while lemon brings a perfect balance between sweet and sour, enhancing the flavor of the blueberries. Vanilla sugar adds a note of warmth and depth.

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the blueberries: Start by washing the blueberries well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Once the blueberries are clean, place them in a large bowl.

2. Maceration: Sprinkle sugar over the washed blueberries. Gently mix to ensure all the fruits are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let it macerate for 4-5 hours. This process will help release the juice from the blueberries, forming a delicious base for the jam.

3. Cooking the jam: After 4-5 hours, transfer the mixture of blueberries and sugar into a large pot. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and add the juice and zest of the lemon, as well as the vanilla sugar. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

4. Boiling: Let the jam simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring periodically. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface, as it can affect the final texture of the jam.

5. Checking the consistency: After about 30 minutes of boiling, take two tablespoons of jam and place them on a plate. Let it cool slightly. If the jam has thickened, it is ready to be bottled. If not, let it cook for a few more minutes.

6. Bottling: Prepare clean, hot jars. Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully pour it into the jars, making sure to leave a little space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely.

Serving suggestions:

Blueberry jam is perfect for accompanying a classic breakfast with toast or pancakes. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or pies. Additionally, a serving of blueberry jam pairs wonderfully with fresh cheese or as a topping for yogurt.

Variations and tips:

If you want to add a twist to your recipe, you can try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few fresh mint leaves during boiling. These ingredients will add extra flavor and complexity to your jam. Also, for a more intense taste, you can experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, alongside blueberries.

Frequently asked questions:

- How long can blueberry jam be stored? Well-bottled and properly stored jam can last for up to a year. Make sure the jars are sealed and stored in a cool, dark place.
- Can I use alternative sugar? Yes, you can try using brown sugar for a jam with a more caramelized flavor or natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but you will need to adjust the amount according to the desired sweetness.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A 100g serving of blueberry jam contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. It provides a good source of energy, but it is important to consume it in moderation due to its high sugar content. On the other hand, the benefits of blueberries, such as antioxidant properties and vitamins, make this jam a healthier choice compared to other types of processed sweets.

In conclusion, blueberry jam is a classic recipe, full of flavor, that will bring you joy in every jar. Invest a little time and effort, and you will be rewarded with a treat that you will enjoy throughout the year. Enjoy!