Summer's bounty is at its peak, and what better way to capture its essence than by making your own blackberry peach jam? This homemade recipe is surprisingly easy, resulting in a delicious spread perfect for toast, biscuits, or even a dollop on your favorite ice cream. It’s a fantastic way to preserve the flavors of summer, making for quick dinner ideas or a delightful addition to your breakfast routine. This easy recipe provides healthy meals that are both simple and satisfying – perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all levels!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh blackberries, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups fresh peaches, peeled, pitted, and chopped
- 6 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 pouch (1.75 oz) liquid pectin
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Canning jars and lids (sterilized)
- Jar lifter (optional, but helpful)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Fruit
Gently wash your blackberries and remove any stems or damaged berries. Peel, pit, and chop your peaches into roughly ½-inch pieces. Having your fruit prepped makes the entire process much smoother.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your large saucepan, combine the blackberries, peaches, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure the sugar is distributed evenly throughout the fruit mixture. This step helps the sugar dissolve properly and prevents burning.
Step 3: Add Pectin and Bring to a Boil
Add the liquid pectin to the fruit mixture. Stir vigorously for one minute. This is crucial for achieving the right jam consistency. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. A rolling boil means a boil that cannot be stirred down.
Step 4: Boil for One Minute
Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, continue to boil hard for exactly one minute, stirring constantly. This is a critical step; timing is essential for proper setting.
Step 5: Remove from Heat and Skim
Remove the saucepan from the heat. Skim off any foam that has formed on the surface of the jam. This step improves the jam's appearance.
Step 6: Fill the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jam into your sterilized canning jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, and then seal with sterilized lids and rings.
Step 7: Process Jars (optional)
For longer shelf life, you can process the filled jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This step is recommended for optimal preservation, but the jam is still safe to eat without it if refrigerated promptly. If skipping this step, ensure you refrigerate the jam within a couple of hours.
Tips for Success:
- Use ripe, but not overripe, fruit for the best flavor and texture.
- Make sure your jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- Stir constantly during the boiling process to prevent burning.
- Let the jam cool completely before checking the seal. A properly sealed jar will have a concave lid.
Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice flavor.
- Incorporate a splash of orange liqueur for an adult twist.
- Use frozen blackberries and peaches – just thaw them completely before starting.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information will vary depending on the exact amount made and serving size. Consult a nutritional calculator for more precise details based on your specific recipe.
This delicious blackberry peach jam is a perfect example of easy recipes that yield delicious dishes. Enjoy the fruits of your labor – and the delicious taste of summer!