Indulge in the berry bliss of Redcurrant Radiance Jam, a vibrant and tantalizing spread that captures the tart and sweet essence of redcurrants. This homemade jam is a delightful celebration of these tiny, jewel-like berries, offering a balance of tartness and sweetness that's perfect for adding a gourmet touch to your breakfasts, desserts, or as a glaze for savory dishes.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: About 2.5 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 redcurrants, 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 Redcurrants: Wash and stem the redcurrants.
- Macerate the Berries: In a large pot, mix redcurrants 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 25 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 redcurrants for the best flavor.
- Adjusting Tartness: Add more or less sugar based on your preference for tartness.
- 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 redcurrants with other berries?
Yes, combining redcurrants with berries like raspberries or strawberries can create delightful flavor profiles.
How long does redcurrant jam last?
Properly stored, it can last up to 1 month in the refrigerator.
Is redcurrant jam high in pectin?
Yes, redcurrants are naturally high in pectin, which helps in setting the jam.