Jam full of vitamins (cranberries, blackberries, pears)

Cranberry and berry jam: a vitamin-packed delicacy

Total preparation time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400g

Step into a world of natural flavors with this vitamin-rich jam recipe, a delicious blend of cranberries, blackberries, and ripe pears. This sweet treat is not just a simple jam, but an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses and bring a touch of health to your table.

A brief story about fruit jam

Jams have been made since ancient times, being an ingenious way to preserve fruits and enjoy them throughout the year. The combination of cranberries, blackberries, and pears is not only delicious but also nutritious, providing a significant amount of vitamins and antioxidants. Cranberries, known for their beneficial properties, are often used in traditional medicine, while pears add natural sweetness, balancing the acidity of the berries.

Ingredients:

- 4 kg of fresh cranberries (Vaccinium vitis-idaea)
- 1 kg of blackberries
- 3 kg of ripe pears
- 1-2 kg of sugar (depending on sweetness preferences)
- Citric acid or salicylate (optional, for preservation)

Necessary utensils:

- A large 10-liter pot
- A food processor or meat grinder
- Glass jars with lids
- A strainer
- A wooden spoon
- A sugar thermometer (optional)

Step 1: Preparing the fruits

Start by washing the cranberries and blackberries thoroughly under cold running water using a strainer. Make sure the fruits are free from impurities. The pears need to be peeled and cored. Once done, use a food processor or meat grinder to turn them into a smooth paste. This paste will form the base of your jam.

Step 2: Cooking the mixture

In a 10-liter pot, add the pear paste, cranberries, and blackberries. Place the pot over low heat and let the mixture simmer, stirring occasionally. By simmering, you will allow the flavors to develop gradually. Continue cooking until the volume decreases by about one third and thickens. This process may take between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the water content of the fruits.

Step 3: Adding the sugar

Once the mixture has thickened, add the sugar. The amount of sugar can vary based on your personal preferences. If you prefer a tarter jam, you can use less sugar. After the sugar has completely dissolved, let the mixture boil again, this time over medium heat. Continue boiling for 30 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bottling the jam

When the jam is ready, perform a consistency test. You can do this by placing a spoonful of jam on a cold plate – if it holds its shape, it’s time to bottle it. Before filling the jars, make sure they are well washed and sterilized. Fill the hot jars with warm jam, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. Cover them with a blanket until they cool completely, to help retain the heat.

Helpful tips:

- Fish or meat: Cranberry and blackberry jam pairs wonderfully with cheeses, and if you enjoy the sweet-salty combination, you can serve the jam on a slice of roasted meat, adding an elegant touch to your table.
- Vegan option: If you want a completely vegan jam, make sure to use a natural sweetener, such as agave syrup or honey (if you’re not vegan).
- Preservation: To extend the shelf life of the jam, adding salicylate can help. This is a preservative that will keep the jam fresh and delicious for longer.
- Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Of course! This recipe can be adapted with your favorite fruits, such as raspberries or strawberries.
- What can I do with the jam? You can use this delicious jam to fill pancakes, pastries, or even as a topping for yogurts and cheeses.

Nutritional benefits

This jam recipe is rich in vitamins and antioxidants, thanks to the high content of cranberries and blackberries. Cranberries are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and for the support they provide to the immune system. Pears contribute a significant amount of fiber, aiding in healthy digestion.

Serving suggestions

For an unforgettable culinary experience, serve cranberry and blackberry jam with fluffy pancakes or warm muffins. You can add a spoonful of jam on top of a serving of Greek yogurt, sprinkling some nuts or seeds for a healthy and satisfying breakfast.

Unique variations

If you want to add a touch of originality, try including some spices, such as cinnamon or cloves, to give the jam a more complex flavor. You can also add freshly squeezed lemon juice for an extra acidity that will enhance the fruit flavors.

Conclude your culinary adventure with this cranberry, blackberry, and pear jam recipe, a true delight that will enchant your taste buds and bring a note of freshness and health to your table. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the benefits of berries in a delicious form!