Indulge in the luscious symphony of Blackcurrant Bliss Jam, a rich and vibrant spread that captures the intense and sweet flavors of fresh blackcurrants. This homemade jam is a celebration of deep berry tones, offering a perfect blend of tartness and sweetness that's ideal for enhancing your breakfasts, adding depth to desserts, or as a companion to cheeses.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: About 3 cups
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Nutritional Profile (per tablespoon)
- Calories: 33 kcal
- Protein: 0.1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 8 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Sugar: 7.8 g
- Ingredients
- Fresh blackcurrants, stemmed (1 kg / 2.2 lbs / 35 oz)
- Granulated sugar (450g / 1 lb / 16 oz)
- Water (100ml / 3.4 oz)
- Lemon juice (30ml / 2 tbsp / 1 oz)
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Prepare Blackcurrants: Wash and stem the blackcurrants.
- Macerate the Berries: In a large pot, mix blackcurrants with sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Mixture: Add water and lemon juice to the pot. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the jam reaches the desired consistency.
- Test for Doneness: To test, place a small amount of jam on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s ready.
- Jar and Cool: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving space at the top. Seal and let cool.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Berry Quality: Use fresh, ripe blackcurrants for the best flavor.
- Adjusting Sweetness: Tailor the amount of sugar to balance the natural tartness of the blackcurrants.
- Texture Variations: For a smoother jam, pass the cooked berries through a sieve to remove seeds.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place or refrigerate for extended shelf life.
FAQs
Can I mix blackcurrants with other fruits?
Yes, combining blackcurrants with fruits like apples or raspberries can create delightful flavor combinations.
How long does blackcurrant jam last?
Properly stored, it can last up to 1 month in the refrigerator.
Is blackcurrant jam high in antioxidants?
Yes, blackcurrants are known for their high antioxidant content.