| Prep: 20 mins | Cook: 40 mins | Difficulty: Medium | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 325 | 0.3g | 0g | 84g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 81g | 3g | 0.6g | 0g |
There are few things as delightful as combining the flavor profiles from different corners of the world to create something truly unique. One such example is the Juniper Berry and Apple Jam, a fusion of Pacific Northwest freshness and a spark of my Japanese lineage. There’s something truly special about this recipe which is why I keep coming back to it, time after time.
Tasting the World in a Jar
The key to this jam lies in the harmonious combination of fresh apples—which are abundant in the Pacific Northwest—and fresh juniper berries, a common ingredient you’d find in many Japanese dishes. This Juniper Berry and Apple Jam truly takes me on a journey—from the fragrant apple orchards of Seattle to the vibrant markets of Tokyo, each spoonful brings me the best of both worlds.
Nourishing and Delicious
Now let’s talk about the best part—the health benefits. This jam is not just bursting with flavors, but also with nutrients. Apples, known for their high fiber content and antioxidants, have been associated with numerous health benefits. Juniper berries, on the other hand, are known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This recipe truly embodies the saying “Good health begins on your plate” or in this case, on your breakfast toast!
Perfect Pairings for this Jam
This jam is incredibly versatile and can perfectly accompany many dishes. It adds a burst of brightness when paired with simple toast or biscuits, but can also bring a unique twist to your cheeseboard. Try pairing this jam with a sharp cheddar or creamy brie to complement its sweet and tangy profile. Or, use it as a glaze for a pork or chicken roast—it’s surprisingly similar to traditional apple chutney, and lends depth and complexity to savory meals.
In the end, it’s the magic of combining these simple, wholesome ingredients into a fusion of flavors that makes me love the Juniper Berry and Apple Jam recipe. It’s a testament to my belief in using ingredients close to home while embracing my Japanese heritage – a delicious way to celebrate the fusion of two cultures.
What You’ll Need
- 2 pounds of fresh apples
- 1 1/2 cups of fresh juniper berries
- 1 1/2 cups of water
- 2 tbsp of lemon juice
- 2 cups of white sugar
- 1 package (1.75 ounces) of fruit pectin
Method
Step One
Start by preparing the apples and juniper berries. Wash the apples thoroughly, peel and core them. Then cut into small pieces. Wash the juniper berries and remove any stems.
Step Two
Place the sliced apples, juniper berries, water, and lemon juice into a large, heavy-bottomed pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer until the apples and juniper berries are soft. This should take approximately 20-30 minutes.
Step Three
In a separate bowl, mix the sugar and fruit pectin together. Once the apples and juniper berries are soft, gradually add the sugar and pectin mix to the pot, stirring continuously to ensure the sugar fully dissolves and doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot.
Step Four
Turn the heat back up to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Boil it for 1 minute, then remove the pot from the heat.
Step Five
Skim off any foam that has formed on the surface of the mixture. If you wish, you can strain the mixture to remove the juniper berries and apple pieces, or you can leave them in for a chunkier texture.
Step Six
Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal immediately. Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store in the refrigerator. Enjoy your homemade Juniper Berry and Apple Jam on toast, scones, or as a filling for pastries!
