Blueberry jam

Blueberry jam is a delicacy that reminds us of warm summers filled with the aroma of fresh fruits. This simple and quick recipe will not only indulge you with a sweet-tart taste but will also give you the satisfaction of creating something delicious right at home. Here’s how to prepare the perfect blueberry jam, step by step.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-45 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:

- 2 kg wild blueberries (make sure they are fresh and free of mold)
- 2 kg sugar (preferably granulated sugar for quick dissolution)
- 1 vanilla bean or 2 packets of vanilla sugar (to add a fragrant note)
- Juice of one lemon (about 60 ml, for a balanced taste)
- 1 teaspoon of butter (helps prevent foam formation)
- 1 liter of water (for preparing the syrup)

Preparing Blueberry Jam:

1. Preparing the Blueberries: Start by washing the blueberries well under a stream of cold water. Then, remove the stems, being careful to select the most beautiful and healthiest ones. Berries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making them extremely beneficial for health.

2. Preparing the Syrup: Choose a larger pot with a thicker bottom to avoid the jam sticking. It is essential to place a thicker iron plate on the flame to distribute the heat evenly. Pour 1 liter of water into the pot and add the sugar and vanilla bean (or vanilla sugar). Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves.

3. Adding the Blueberries: Once the syrup starts to boil, carefully add the blueberries. The heat should be high initially to help extract the juice from the fruits. You will notice how the color of the blueberries starts to transfer into the syrup, creating a vibrant hue.

4. Flavoring and Stabilizing: After the jam starts to boil, add the lemon juice, the vanilla bean (if you didn't use vanilla sugar), and the teaspoon of butter. The butter will not only prevent foam formation but will also add a silky texture to the jam.

5. Boiling: Let the jam boil over high heat for about 30 minutes. Then, reduce the heat and continue boiling on low until the syrup thickens. If you prefer a softer jam, you can reduce the boiling time.

6. Bottling: When the jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully pour it into sterilized jars, filling them nearly to the top. Make sure the jars are warm to prevent cracking when in contact with the hot jam.

7. Sealing: Place the lids on the jars, then preheat the oven to a high temperature. Reduce the flame to minimum and place the jars in the oven. Let them sterilize for 15 minutes. Once the time is up, turn off the flame and let the jars cool slowly in the oven.

8. Storing: After they have completely cooled, place the jars in the pantry, where they will keep well for several months.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing Blueberries: Buy blueberries from a trusted supplier or, if you have the chance, pick them yourself from the woods. Fresh berries offer the best flavor.
- Brown Sugar Variation: If you want a jam with a deeper flavor, you can use brown sugar instead of white sugar.
- Experiment with Flavors: You can add a few mint leaves or a splash of cinnamon for an interesting twist.

Nutritional Benefits: Blueberry jam is rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber, contributing to a balanced diet. Consuming it in moderation can allow you to benefit from its nutritional properties.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- How can I check if the jam is well set? You can do the plate test: put a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate and tilt it. If it doesn’t run, it’s well set.
- How can I use blueberry jam in other recipes? You can use this jam as a filling for cakes, tarts, or as a topping for yogurt and pancakes.

Serving Suggestions: Serve blueberry jam with fresh cheese or on a slice of toasted bread, alongside a fragrant tea for a perfect breakfast or a sweet snack during the day.

Blueberry jam is more than just a simple dessert; it is a part of our memories, a connection to nature, and a joy to create something special. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every spoonful of jam!