Ingredients
- Fresh Blueberries: 4 cups
- Granulated Sugar: 3 cups
- Fruit Pectin (powdered): 1 packet (1.75 oz)
- Fresh Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons
- Water: 1/4 cup
- Unsalted Butter (optional, for foam reduction): 1/2 teaspoon
Instructions
- Step 1: Sterilize your canning jars and lids. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the blueberries and lemon juice. Crush the berries lightly using a potato masher, leaving some whole for texture.
- Step 2: In a small separate bowl, mix the powdered pectin with the 1/4 cup of water until dissolved. Stir this pectin mixture and the optional butter into the blueberries and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly.
- Step 3: Immediately add all of the sugar at once, stirring rapidly. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down (a true, vigorous boil). Continue boiling for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Step 4: Remove the pot from the heat immediately. Skim any foam from the surface using a metal spoon. Allow the jam to rest for 5 minutes before ladling it into the hot, sterilized jars, leaving 1/4 inch headspace.
- Step 5: Wipe the jar rims clean, secure the lids and rings (finger-tight). Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Remove the jars and let them cool completely on a wire rack for 12 to 24 hours to ensure a proper seal.
Notes
- Once a jar is opened, keep the jam refrigerated and aim to enjoy it within three weeks for the best flavor and texture.
- If your finished jam is overly firm, gently warm a spoonful in the microwave for 10 to 15 seconds to return it to a spoonable, flowing consistency perfect for swirling.
- Elevate your breakfast by swirling this bright jam into plain Greek yogurt, or dollop it generously over warm Brie cheese as a sophisticated appetizer.
- To ensure a crystal-clear finished product, do not skip adding the optional 1/2 teaspoon of unsalted butter in Step 2, as it works wonders to reduce the starchy foam that forms during the initial boil.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American