Are you ready for a jam session? Not the musical kind, but the kind that involves bubbling fruit, fragrant spices, and the sweet, earthy taste of wild berries? This Black Bear Jam recipe is a delicious and surprisingly easy way to capture the essence of autumn in a jar. Perfect for slathering on toast, pairing with cheese, or even adding a unique twist to your favorite desserts, this homemade jam is a delicious treat you'll want to make again and again. It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of easy recipes and healthy meals, perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something homemade and delicious.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups blackberries (fresh or frozen – frozen work perfectly!)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- Pinch of salt
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Canning jars and lids (sterilized)
- Jar lifter (optional, but helpful)
Instructions:
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Prepare Your Berries: Wash your blackberries thoroughly. If using frozen berries, let them thaw completely before proceeding.
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Combine Ingredients: In your large saucepan, gently combine the blackberries, sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, cloves, and salt. Stir well to ensure the sugar is distributed evenly.
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Simmer the Jam: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer, stirring occasionally.
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The Setting Point: The jam is ready when it reaches the setting point. This means that a small spoonful dropped onto a chilled plate will wrinkle slightly when pushed with your finger. This usually takes around 15-20 minutes, depending on your stove and the amount of pectin in your berries.
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Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into your sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims clean, place the lids and rings on, and tighten securely.
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Process the Jars (Optional): For long-term storage, you can process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This ensures a shelf-stable product. If you skip this step, store your jam in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 weeks.
Tips for Black Bear Jam Success:
- Don't over-crush the berries: A few whole berries will add texture to your jam.
- Taste as you go: Adjust the sweetness and spice to your preference.
- Sterilize your jars: This is crucial for safe and long-lasting storage. Wash your jars and lids in hot, soapy water, then rinse and sterilize them in boiling water for 10 minutes.
Variations:
- Spicy Black Bear Jam: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a delightful kick.
- Black Bear & Apple Jam: Combine blackberries with chopped apples for a more complex flavor.
- Black Bear & Orange Jam: Add the zest and juice of one orange for a citrusy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories
- Sugar: High in natural sugars from the fruit
- Fiber: Good source of fiber
This Black Bear Jam recipe is a delicious and rewarding homemade cooking experience. Whether you're a seasoned jam maker or a complete beginner, this recipe is accessible and produces a truly delectable result. Enjoy the sweet taste of the wild, and happy jam-making!