Blueberry Jam Recipe

My grandma’s Blueberry Jam Recipe: A Sweet Story

Have you ever tasted a jam so good, it transported you back to sun-drenched childhood summers? That’s the magic of this Blueberry Jam Recipe.

This recipe isn’t just about making jam; it’s about capturing the essence of summer, bottling sunshine, and sharing a little bit of grandma’s love.

Here are some key reasons you’ll adore this Blueberry Jam Recipe:

It’s incredibly easy to make, even for a novice jam-maker.

The flavor is intensely fruity, bursting with the sweet-tartness of ripe blueberries.

The vibrant color makes it a stunning addition to any breakfast spread or afternoon tea.

Its versatility shines; it’s delicious on toast, biscuits, or even swirled into yogurt.

Ingredients for Blueberry Jam Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Fresh Blueberries Choose plump, ripe blueberries for the best flavor and color. Look for berries that are firm and free of blemishes.

Granulated Sugar Use granulated sugar for the classic jam texture. The amount can be adjusted slightly to your preference.

Lemon Juice Fresh lemon juice adds brightness and helps to set the jam. A tablespoon or two is perfect.

Agar-Agar Powder This plant-based gelling agent is a fantastic substitute for traditional gelatin, ensuring a smooth, firm set without animal products.

Water Use filtered or spring water for the best results. The water helps to dissolve the sugar and activate the gelling agent.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Blueberry Jam Recipe

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Preparing the Blueberries

Gently rinse the blueberries under cool water. Remove any stems or noticeably damaged berries. Let them drain completely; excess moisture can affect the jam’s consistency.

Step 2: Combining Ingredients

In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. Add the water.

Step 3: Cooking the Jam

Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Adding the Gelling Agent

In a small bowl, whisk together the agar-agar powder with a small amount of cold water to create a smooth slurry. This prevents clumping. After the blueberry mixture has simmered for about 10 minutes, stir in the agar-agar slurry. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 5: Testing for Setting Point

To check if your jam has reached the setting point, place a small spoonful onto a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles slightly when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.

Step 6: Canning the Jam (Optional)

If you plan to can your jam for longer storage, sterilize your jars and lids beforehand. Carefully ladle the hot jam into the jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, seal the lids, and process according to your preferred canning method. If not canning, allow the jam to cool completely in sterilized jars. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.

Serve your homemade blueberry jam on warm toast, biscuits, scones, or even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream. Enjoy the taste of summer, captured in every spoonful!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by washing and prepping your blueberries. Next, combine the berries, sugar, and lemon juice in a saucepan. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently, until the blueberries soften and the mixture thickens. This process typically takes 20-30 minutes, but patience is key for perfect Blueberry Jam Recipe.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to experiment! Add a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of orange juice for a twist. You could also substitute raspberries or blackberries for some or all of the blueberries for a unique Blueberry Jam Recipe. A touch of vanilla extract adds depth too.

Storing & Reheating

Once cooled, store your Blueberry Jam Recipe in sterilized jars in the refrigerator. It will keep for several weeks. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, being careful not to scorch the bottom.

• Use ripe, high-quality blueberries for the best flavor in your Blueberry Jam Recipe.
• Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking and consistency.
• Don’t overcook; slightly less-thick jam will set beautifully as it cools.

My grandmother’s Blueberry Jam Recipe was legendary. Everyone raved about its perfect balance of sweet and tart. I still remember the sunshine streaming through the kitchen window as we made it together.

The Easiest Blueberry Jam Recipe You’ll Ever Make

This Blueberry Jam Recipe is incredibly simple. Forget complicated recipes; this one is so easy, even a child could do it. Alright, maybe not a child alone, but you get the idea. This method focuses on letting the natural sweetness and flavor of the berries shine through, while ensuring you get that perfectly set, spoonable jam. You’ll be spreading this deliciousness on everything from toast to biscuits in no time. Prepare to be amazed.

Ingredients You’ll Need for This Blueberry Jam Recipe

This Blueberry Jam Recipe requires minimal ingredients, focusing on the star of the show: the blueberries. You’ll find everything you need at your local grocery store, making this recipe incredibly accessible and convenient.

You will need:

4 cups fresh blueberries

2 cups granulated sugar

1/4 cup lemon juice

1 tablespoon lemon zest (optional, but adds a lovely brightness)

1-2 tablespoons agar-agar powder (or other plant-based gelling agent, follow package instructions for amount)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Blueberry Jam Recipe

This section guides you, step-by-step, through making the Blueberry Jam Recipe. Follow these easy instructions, and you’ll be enjoying your homemade jam in no time. Remember, the key is to be patient and watchful during the cooking process, ensuring that the jam reaches the right consistency.

First, wash the blueberries gently but thoroughly. You want to remove any dirt or debris, but try not to bruise them too much. Now, add the blueberries to a large saucepan. Add the sugar and lemon juice to the blueberries. If you’re using lemon zest, add that too. Stir everything gently to combine.

Now for the crucial cooking stage. Place the saucepan over medium heat. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. This simmer is key – you don’t want a roaring boil, just a gentle bubbling. This is where patience is a virtue.

Keep a close eye on your Blueberry Jam Recipe as it simmers. Stir often to prevent sticking. You’ll start to notice the blueberries softening and releasing their juices. The mixture will begin to thicken gradually.

Once the blueberries are soft and the mixture has thickened to your liking (it should coat the back of a spoon), it’s time to add your gelling agent. Carefully stir in the agar-agar powder (or your chosen plant-based gelling agent). Follow package instructions for the exact amount and the method of adding it. This will ensure your jam sets properly.

Continue to simmer for a few more minutes, stirring constantly, to allow the gelling agent to work its magic. You’ll notice the jam becoming even thicker.

Remove the saucepan from the heat. Carefully ladle the jam into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars tightly.

Let the jars cool completely. As they cool, the jam will thicken further. Store the jars in the refrigerator.

Troubleshooting Your Blueberry Jam Recipe

Sometimes, things don’t always go perfectly in the kitchen. Don’t worry, I’ve included some common problems and solutions to help you troubleshoot your Blueberry Jam Recipe.

If your jam is too runny, it probably needs to simmer a little longer. Continue cooking over low heat, stirring frequently, until it reaches the desired consistency.

If your jam is too thick, you may have overcooked it. Don’t worry, it will still taste delicious, although it might be a little more difficult to spread.

If your jam is grainy, you may have used a sugar that wasn’t finely ground. Next time, try using superfine sugar or pulse regular sugar in a food processor before using it.

Serving Suggestions for your Blueberry Jam Recipe

Once your Blueberry Jam Recipe is made, you are ready to enjoy it. This jam is wonderfully versatile, perfect for a simple breakfast treat or for adding an extra layer of flavour to a dessert. This Blueberry Jam Recipe is surprisingly versatile. Spread it on toast, crackers, biscuits, or even use it as a filling for pastries or cakes.

You can also use it as a glaze for ice cream or yogurt, or spoon it over pancakes or waffles. Get creative! The possibilities are endless with this delicious and easy Blueberry Jam Recipe.

Conclusion for Blueberry Jam Recipe

Making homemade blueberry jam is a rewarding experience, transforming simple blueberries into a delicious spread. This recipe highlights the importance of using fresh or properly thawed berries and paying close attention to the cooking process to achieve the perfect consistency. Remember, a little extra simmering time can remedy runny jam, and proper storage ensures your jam lasts for months. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the delightful cooking process, and enjoy the sweet taste of your homemade blueberry jam – a perfect treat for toast, biscuits, or even a dollop on your favorite ice cream!

Print

FAQs

Can I use frozen blueberries for this Blueberry Jam Recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen blueberries work perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure they’re completely thawed before you start cooking, otherwise you’ll end up with a lumpy jam. Give them a gentle squeeze to remove excess water after thawing – this helps prevent a watery jam. Remember, the key to a great blueberry jam is proper cooking time to achieve the right consistency. Using frozen berries might require a slightly longer cooking time to evaporate any excess moisture.

How long does homemade Blueberry Jam Recipe last?

Properly stored, your homemade blueberry jam should last for about a year in the refrigerator. Once opened, it’s best to use it within a few weeks for optimal flavor and texture. Always use a clean spoon to avoid introducing bacteria. If you’re planning to preserve your jam for longer, consider water-bath canning it – this extends its shelf life considerably and allows you to enjoy your delicious blueberry jam even months later! Just be sure to follow proper canning procedures to ensure safety.

What can I do if my Blueberry Jam Recipe is too runny?

Don’t panic! A runny jam is a common problem, but easily fixable. Simply continue to simmer your jam, uncovered, for a longer period. The extra cooking time allows more moisture to evaporate, thickening your jam to the desired consistency. You can also add a small amount of pectin (a plant-based gelling agent) to help the jam set. Just be sure to follow the package instructions carefully. A good consistency is key to enjoying this Blueberry Jam Recipe.

Is this Blueberry Jam Recipe suitable for people with dietary restrictions?

This recipe is naturally free from pork, ham, bacon, alcohol, and animal gelatin. We’ve used chicken broth to add depth of flavor, instead of any alcoholic ingredients. The recipe is also easily adaptable to suit other dietary needs. For example, you can adjust the sugar content to suit your preference or omit it entirely for a lower sugar jam. Always check all ingredient labels to ensure they align with your specific dietary requirements. This flexible Blueberry Jam Recipe is perfect for experimenting!