Description
This Mixed Berry Jam recipe is a delightful homemade preserve combining blackberries, blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries. Sweetened with granulated sugar and brightened with fresh lemon juice, this jam is cooked on the stovetop to achieve a perfect set. Ideal for spreading on toast or adding to desserts, it yields 4 jars of 300 ml each, preserving the fresh taste of summer berries all year round.
Ingredients
Fruit
- 255 g (9 oz) fresh blackberries, halved
- 255 g (9 oz) fresh blueberries
- 255 g (9 oz) fresh strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 255 g (9 oz) fresh raspberries
Other Ingredients
- 700 g (3 cups + 5 tsp) white granulated sugar
- 60 ml (1/4 cup) fresh lemon juice
Instructions
- Sterilising the Jars: Begin by selecting glass jars with airtight metal lids that have been washed by hand in hot soapy water and rinsed well. Ensure the lids do not have rubber inserts; if they do, air dry them instead of heating. Preheat your oven to 130°C (270°F) and place the jars inside for 15-20 minutes to sterilize. Keep the jars warm until ready to use.
- Prepare freezing plates: Place two small saucers or plates into the freezer to chill; these will be used to test the jam’s setting point later.
- Prepare the berries: Wash and dry all the berries thoroughly. Cut blackberries in half, hull and quarter the strawberries, and leave the raspberries and blueberries whole. Combine all berries in a large saucepan with the granulated sugar and freshly squeezed lemon juice, stirring well with a long-handled wooden spoon.
- Dissolve the sugar: Place the saucepan over low heat and stir continuously until the sugar completely dissolves, which should take about 5-8 minutes. Scrape down any sugar crystals from the sides with a spatula to prevent crystallization.
- Boil the mixture: Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Boil for 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and burning.
- Check the setting point: Begin testing the jam after 15 minutes of boiling by spooning a small amount onto one of the chilled plates. Let it cool for 30 seconds, then run your finger through it; if it wrinkles slightly, the jam has set. If not, return it to boil for another 1-2 minutes and test again. Alternatively, use a candy thermometer—setting point is at 105°C (220°F).
- Skim the jam: Remove any foam or scum that forms on the surface with a spoon for a clearer jam.
- Rest the jam: Let the jam sit off the heat for 5 minutes to allow the fruit pieces to distribute evenly.
- Fill and seal jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized warm jars, filling them to the top. Immediately seal with the metal lids.
- Cool and store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Wipe any spills off the jars and store your jam in a cool, dark place for best preservation.
Notes
- Use fresh, ripe berries for the best flavor and color.
- Ensure jars and lids are properly sterilized to prevent spoilage.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice helps the jam set and balances sweetness.
- Keep an eye on the jam during boiling to prevent burning or overcooking.
- Test setting point carefully to achieve perfect jam consistency.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American