Homemade Blueberry Jam

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh blueberries
• 2 cups sugar
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest (optional)
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
• A pinch of salt

Instructions

1. Prepare the Blueberries: Wash the blueberries and remove any stems or leaves. Crush them slightly with a potato masher or fork.
2. Cook the Mixture: In a heavy-bottomed pot, combine the blueberries, sugar, lemon juice, lemon zest (if using), vanilla extract (if using), and salt. Stir well.
3. Bring to a Boil: Cook the mixture over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Bring it to a rolling boil and cook for 15-20 minutes or until it thickens.
4. Test for Doneness: Place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s done. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.
5. Cool and Store: Remove from heat and let cool slightly. Transfer the jam to sterilized jars, leaving a 1/4-inch headspace. Seal with lids and process in a boiling water bath for 5 minutes if desired. Alternatively, store in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks.
6. Enjoy: Spread your homemade blueberry jam on toast, stir it into yogourt, or use it as a filling for pastries. The possibilities are endless!

Conclusion

This blueberry jam recipe is a delightful way to enjoy the natural goodness of fresh blueberries. It’s a simple yet rewarding process, resulting in a delicious spread that’s perfect for various culinary uses. Gardeners Emporium is proud to share recipes, gardening tips, and more to enhance your home gardening and culinary experience.