Today, we’re going to embark on a culinary adventure and explore a homemade delight that melts in your mouth, sparkles on the tongue, and delivers just the right amount of sweet and tangy goodness – elderberry jam with honey. This jam is a timeless staple in many homes, emanating a luring aroma, a rich ruby color, and an unparalleled taste that has the power to turn simple breakfast toast into a flavorful experience.
The Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s the list of ingredients that will give birth to our flagship elderberry jam recipe with honey:
- 4 cups of fresh elderberries, plucked right from the bush
- 1/2 cup of water to simmer the berries in
- 2 cups of raw honey, bringing sweetness along with health benefits
- The juice of one lemon, for that hand of citrusy zing
- A tinge of cloves or cinnamon – it’s purely optional, but highly recommended for an extra flavor burst!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s your roadmap to recreating this palatable masterpiece:
- Rinse the berries under cold water, making sure you filter out any stems or leaves.
- Pour the elderberries and the water into a large pot and let it simmer on medium heat until the berries burst and release their rich juices. This could take around 15 minutes.
- Strain this mixture through a fine sieve, extracting every bit of the juice.
- Now, return the juice back to the pot and add in the honey, stirring until they meld together in a sweet symphony.
- Throw in the lemon juice and your choice of spice (if any), stirring the aromatic festival until it thickens.
- Finally, let the jam cool and refrigerate it, storing your flavorsome concoction safely.
Cooking Time & Servings
From start to finish, this beautiful dance of flavors involves around 1 hour of preparation and cooking. This makes approximately two cups of elderberry jam. Not to mention the smiles you’ll serve!
Nutritional Information
Our elderberry jam recipe with honey isn’t just a roller-coaster ride for the taste buds, but it’s also a delight for the health-conscious at heart. Elderberries are the dark horse of the berry world, packed with antioxidants, fibers, and vitamins. Honey, on the other hand, is a sweet treasure trove of nutrients and health benefits.
Foolproof Tips & Tricks
While our recipe is pretty straightforward, here are a few tips to make your jam more delectable:
- For a richer taste, consider adding a teaspoon of vanilla extract too.
- Always use raw honey for the authentic taste and maximum health benefits.
- Do not rush through the simmering process – let the ingredients mingle and merge gradually.
- Refrigerate your jam once cool, to get a thicker consistency.
To Wrap It Up
This simple, yet enticing elderberry jam recipe with honey brings out nature’s finest flavors and transports you to a realm of culinary satisfaction. Give this recipe a shot, share your creation on our social page, and let us know what you think. We’d love to see how you add your unique twist to our recipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen elderberries?
Yes, frozen elderberries work just as well. Just ensure to thaw them properly before using.
Can I replace honey with sugar?
You can, but it might alter the taste of the jam slightly. Honey adds a distinctive taste that sugar may not replicate.How long does elderberry jam last?
Most homemade jams, when stored properly, can last upto 3 months.Do I need pectin for this recipe?
No, elderberries are naturally high in pectin, so there’s no need to add any.Can I double this recipe?
Absolutely! You can scale the recipe up or down to suit your needs.
Creating a homemade elderberry jam with honey is not just about experiencing a culinary sensation but also about embracing wholesome and nutrient-rich ingredients. So why wait? Get cooking, and let’s start jamming!