How To Make Blackcurrant Jam

Do you dream of kitchen creation filled with sweet jams and jellies that make your taste buds dance? Well, look no further! Making a simple blackcurrant jam is the perfect recipe to start with. Even if you have never tried making any type of preserve before – it couldn’t be simpler for a beginner.

All you need are easily acquired ingredients and some basic equipment to get started. What’s more, this homemade jam serves as an ideal way to put all those delightful summer seasonal fruit to use as well, so why not give it a go? Read on for the step-by-step guide to creating this tasty treat in no time at all.

Easy Blackcurrant Jam | Fresh or Frozen Fruit

When it comes to making a simple yet tantalizing jam, nothing beats the classic Blackcurrant Jam. Perfect for both fresh or frozen blackcurrants, this jam is a delightful mix of sweet and tart flavours that can elevate your breakfast toast or afternoon tea snack.

The process is quite straightforward and doesn’t require any complicated techniques or equipment. All you need are ripe blackcurrants, sugar, and a bit of lemon juice. The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility – you can adjust the sweetness according to your preference and use either fresh or frozen fruit, depending on what’s available. The result is a rich, vibrant jam that not only tastes amazing but also has the added benefit of being packed with antioxidants from the blackcurrants.

Preparing The Blackcurrants

Preparing blackcurrants for your jam is a straightforward process. First, if you’re using fresh blackcurrants, start by washing them under cool running water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, remove the stalks from each berry – this can be done easily with your fingers.

If you’re using frozen blackcurrants, there’s no need to thaw them before use.

How To Sterilize Jars For Jam

Wash your jam jars thoroughly, ideally, use your dishwasher at a high temperature. Then using a clean sink, place your jars and lids in it and pour boiling hot water over them. You may need to boil the kettle a few times, depending on how many jars you have. Leave to dry on a clean piece of clean kitchen towel.

What Are the best jars for jam-making?

There are a few things to consider when choosing the best jars for jam-making. The first is the size of the jar. You want to make sure that the jar is big enough to hold all of the jam you plan on making.

The second is the type of lid. You want to make sure that the lid seals tightly so that no air can get in and spoil the jam.

The third is the material the jar is made out of. Glass is the best material to use because it does not absorb flavours or colours from the jam.

Fourth is to make sure the lids are poppable so that when the jam cools down in the jar, the poppable part of the lid will be sucked in, making a pop sound. Then you know your jam jars are properly vacuum sealed.

Ingredients For Blackcurrant Jam

For about 4 – 5 jars of jam, you will need the following ingredients:

• 700 g Blackcurrants (Fresh or frozen)
• Water (Just enough to cover the fruit)
• 500 g Sugar
• 1 Lemon (Juiced)

How To Make Blackcurrant Jam

STEP 1

Place a small plate in the fridge to cool.

STEP 2

Add the blackcurrants to the pot and water so it just covers the fruit.

STEP 3

Boil the fruit until soft and the water partially evaporated. This will take approximately 15 to 20 minutes.

STEP 4

Add the sugar and lemon juice and boil until the mixture has reduced by half (about 20 minutes).

STEP 5

Take a teaspoon of jam and spread on the cooled plate. Leave it for a few minutes.  If the jam has skin on it or pulls slightly with your finger, it’s ready!

STEP 6

Pour into sterilised glass jars and quickly seal. Leave to cool. The lids should pop (if you have poppable lids), which means they are properly sealed.

Blackcurrant Jam Serving Suggestions

Here are some yummy serving suggestions that will go well with blackcurrant jam.

• Spread it on a warm piece of toast for a classic breakfast treat.
• Swirl it into your morning yoghurt or oatmeal for added flavour and colour.
• Use it as a filling for crepes or pancakes for an indulgent weekend brunch.
• Layer it in a parfait with granola and Greek yoghurt for a healthy dessert.
• Dollop it on top of a scoop of vanilla ice cream for a fruity twist.
• Mix it into a cocktail or mocktail for a sweet and tangy kick.
• Use it as a glaze for pork or chicken for a sweet and savoury dinner.
• Pair it with cheese and crackers for a sophisticated snack.