| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 30 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 241 | 0.3g | 0g | 62g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 52g | 3.4g | 0.6g | 0.002g |
If there’s one thing I know as a heartfelt cook from Nebraska, it’s the importance of letting fresh, quality ingredients shine—and this Blueberry and Tonka Bean Jam recipe does just that. Inspired by my Midwestern background of farm-to-table freshness, this jam possesses a delectable sweetness, underlined by the unique, vanilla-esque flavor of the exquisite Tonka bean. The result is a rustic, divine spread that feels at home on any breakfast table or nestled within your favorite pastry.
Health Benefits and Flavor Profile
One of the things I cherish about this Blueberry and Tonka Bean Jam recipe is its inherent health benefits. Blueberries, as you might already know, are supercharged with antioxidants. These little powerhouses of vitamins help boost your immune system and contribute to overall health. Moreover, the lemon juice in this recipe not only heightens the flavours, but also brings a hefty amount of Vitamin C into the equation.
When it comes to flavor, this rich and chunky jam strikes a beautiful balance between the natural sweetness of fresh blueberries and the warm, intoxicating notes of Tonka beans. Tonka beans with their slightly sweet, vanilla-like taste with hints of almond and clove, lend an exotic touch making the jam exquisitely fragrant and flavorful. A perfect pleasure for your taste buds!
Perfect Pairings
Homemade Blueberry and Tonka Bean Jam is truly a versatile delight. Much like traditional berry jams, it pairs excellently with staples such as warm buttered toast, bagels, or English muffins for a comforting breakfast. If you’re feeling adventurous, try it as a filling for warm, flaky croissants or as a topping on a creamy cheesecake. This jam also makes similar companionship with brie or camembert cheese on a picturesque cheese board.
But my personal favorite pairing has to be with a warm, buttery biscuit—a nod to the comfort food from my Nebraska roots! These are those humble, home-cooked memories, etched into my heart, that inspire my gourmet creations. It’s my belief that food, when shared, not just satiates hunger but also conjures togetherness, warmth, and shared stories—an ethos I’ve been shaped by as a Nebraskan, an avid churchgoer, and an ardent proponent of the large family concept.
I hope this Blueberry and Tonka Bean Jam finds a special place in your recipe collection as it has in mine. Enjoy its fruit-forward, subtly spiced goodness with anything you fancy, and most importantly, with the people you love.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- 1 cup white sugar
- 1/2 cup water
- 2 tonka beans, finely grated
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
Method
Step One
Combine the blueberries, sugar, water, and the finely grated tonka beans in a large saucepan. Stir well to guarantee that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step Two
Bring the mixture in the saucepan to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure the sugar doesn’t stick and burn at the bottom.
Step Three
Once the mixture starts boiling, reduce the heat to low, keep it uncovered and let it simmer. Make sure to stir the mixture frequently.
Step Four
Simmer the mixture until the blueberries are very soft and the mixture has thickened. This should take about 50-60 minutes.
Step Five
Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the lemon juice. The acidity helps to balance the sweetness of the jam.
Step Six
Wait for the jam to cool down. Then transfer it into sterilized jars, seal them and preserve them in a cool, dark spot, or in your fridge if you plan on using it immediately.
Note: Always check for signs of mould or a peculiar smell before eating preserved jam. Discard without tasting if there are any doubts about its safety.
