Cranberry jam
Cranberry jam combines tart cranberries and zesty orange juice for a delightful preserve. This simple recipe yields a tangy sweet spread perfect for toast or glazes.
Cook time 60 min
Prep time 15 min
Ingredients:
1 cup sugar3 cup cranberries
1/2 cup orange juice
1 cup water
Cranberry jam is a delightful and versatile preserve that can add a burst of tangy sweetness to your breakfast toast, holiday spread, or even as a glaze for meats. This simple yet delicious recipe is perfect for capturing the festive essence of cranberries mixed with the zesty hint of orange juice. Follow these easy steps to create your very own homemade cranberry jam.
Instructions:
- Rinse the cranberries under cold water and pick out any stems or spoiled berries.
- In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
- Over medium-high heat, bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally to help dissolve the sugar.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low.
- Let the mixture simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice the cranberries starting to pop and break down.
- Continue cooking until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. This usually takes about 20-30 minutes. You can mash the cranberries with the back of a spoon if you prefer a smoother texture, or leave them slightly chunky for a more rustic jam.
- To check if your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it's done. If not, cook a few minutes longer and test again.
- Remove the saucepan from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
- Transfer the cranberry jam into clean, sterilized jars.
- Allow the jam to cool completely before sealing the jars.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to two weeks or process it in a water bath canner for longer storage.
Making cranberry jam at home is a rewarding and straightforward process that yields a deliciously tangy and sweet result. With just a few simple ingredients and some handy tips, you can create a versatile jam perfect for many culinary uses. Enjoy your homemade cranberry jam on toast, as a pastry filling, or as a complement to savory dishes, and relish the fact that you made it from scratch!
Cranberry jam FAQ:
The total preparation and cooking time for cranberry jam is about 35-50 minutes. This includes around 15-20 minutes for simmering and an additional 20-30 minutes to thicken the jam to your desired consistency.
You can check the doneness of the jam by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate. Run your finger through it; if the jam holds its shape and wrinkles, it's ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
Cranberry jam can be stored in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, process the jars in a water bath canner to seal them properly.
Yes, you can substitute orange juice with lemon juice or another citrus juice, but this may alter the flavor profile slightly. Ensure that the sweetness level is adjusted according to the acidity of the substitute.
If your cranberry jam is too runny, continue to cook it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens to your desired consistency. You can also use a natural thickening agent like pectin if needed.
Cooking Tips:
- For a smoother consistency, you can blend the jam with an immersion blender or a regular blender after cooking.
- To enhance the flavor, consider adding a pinch of cinnamon or a splash of vanilla extract during the cooking process.
- Always sterilize your jars and lids before filling them with hot jam to ensure the preservation lasts longer.
- If you prefer a thicker jam, allow it to simmer for a few extra minutes while keeping an eye on it to prevent burning.
- Use a potato masher to gently crush the cranberries while cooking if you prefer your jam to have a chunkier texture.
Nutrition Facts
2 ServingsCalories 500kcal
Protein 1.19g
Carbohydrates 120g
Fiber 6g
Sugar 110g
Fat 0.74g
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