| Prep: 10 mins | Cook: 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 375 | 0g | 0g | 95g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 89g | 4g | 1g | 0g |
My love affair with the Jostaberry Jam recipe harks back to my childhood days in Portland, Maine. Although my heart lies with the salacious seafood dishes of New England, my gastronomical journey wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the refreshing fruit treats that the season ushers in. Jostaberry Jam, in all its sweet-tart glory, was, and continues to be, a staple at our family table, charming the tastebuds of my two daughters, Erin and Samantha. It echoes the region’s vibrant berry abundance, making it an absolute delight.
Memories Etched in Berry Juice
Our cozy kitchen would bubble with excitement, just like the Jostaberries in the pot, as this sumptuous jam progressed from start to lip-smacking finish. The process of making Jostaberry Jam evolved from a household chore to a much-anticipated annual tradition, as central to our summer as cannonballs into the local swimming hole. Just the smell of its wonderful aroma transports me to those simpler, yummier times.
The Healthful Side of Delight
But it isn’t just nostalgia and deliciousness that keeps me tied to the Jostaberry Jam recipe. Jostaberries, a delicious cross between gooseberries and black currants, are packed with fiber, potassium, vitamin C, and powerful antioxidants, lending numerous health benefits to this seemingly indulgent treat.
While I wholeheartedly enjoy it lathered on toasted bread, its tart, flavorful zing also works wonders in savory pairings. Think roast turkey basted with Jostaberry Jam, their flavors blending to create a palatable symphony. Or perhaps a heaping spoonful dolloped onto a sharp cheese. It pairs exceptionally well with brie as an appetizer, cutting through the creaminess, creating an unforgettable savor.
Each spoonful of Jostaberry Jam embodies childhood memories, the simple joys of life, and the fresh produce of Maine summers. If you’re yearning for a spread that infuses your meals with a delightful burst of flavor while benefiting your health, this recipe could well be your ‘berry’ delicious solution.
What You’ll Need
- 4 cups of Jostaberries
- 2 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1/2 cup of water
- 1 packet of fruit pectin (1.75 oz)
Method
Step One
Start by washing the Jostaberries thoroughly in a strainer under cold, running water. Drain well.
Step Two
Place the washed Jostaberries into a large saucepan. Add 1/2 cup of water and bring to a simmer over medium heat until the fruit is soft. This should take about 10 minutes.
Step Three
Use a potato masher or similar tool to gently smash the Jostaberries. This will help to release their natural juices and pectin.
Step Four
Add 2 cups of granulated sugar and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to the saucepan. Stir well to make sure everything is combined. Then, bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, stirring frequently.
Step Five
Once the sugar is completely dissolved and the mixture is boiling, add the packet of fruit pectin. Stir constantly for one minute while the mixture returns to a boil.
Step Six
Continue to boil the mixture for about 10 minutes, or until it begins to thicken. Make sure to keep stirring regularly so that the jam doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pan and burn.
Step Seven
Remove the saucepan from heat and skim off any foam that might be on the surface of the jam. Then, immediately pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal them tightly.
Step Eight
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, check that the lids have sealed correctly before storing in a cool, dry place. Your homemade Jostaberry jam is now ready to enjoy!
