Blackberries are a British classic and this recipe is the perfect way to preserve them. It’s simple to make, uses only a few ingredients, and can be enjoyed throughout the year.
How to Make Blackberry Jam
The first step in making this delicious jam is to sort and clean your blackberries, discarding any ripe but dry or moldy ones. You also want to look for leaves, stems, and any little bugs. Once you have a selection of berries that are free from any pests, add them to your large saucepan with the sugar and lemon juice.
Let the mixture macerate for 30 minutes before you start cooking it. This helps to release the natural juices from the fruit, dissolving the sugar faster.
Once the berry mixture has macerated, bring it to a boil over medium-high heat. Stir the mixture regularly to avoid boiling over. If the sugar crystals begin to form, you’ll need to reduce the heat.
You’ll need a heavy-bottomed saucepan for this jam, as the blackberries will foam a lot when they cook. You’ll also want to keep a watchful eye on the pot as it cooks. If the sugar begins to stick to the bottom, you’ll need to stir it a bit to loosen it up.
Place the berries in the pan with the sugar and lemon juice, stirring to ensure the mixture has evenly distributed. This can take a few minutes, but it’s worth it!
Next, mix the pectin into the mixture. Many jam recipes call for pectin, which encourages gelling and sets the mixture. This blackberry jam doesn’t need it, as the berries are high in natural pectin and the addition of lemon juice balances the sweetness.
Once your jam has reached the desired setting point, ladle it into jars that have been sterilized with sodium benzoate or vodka. Leave about a half inch headspace at the top of the jar, and cover with a lid immediately.
How to Store Your Jam
When your homemade blackberry jam has cooled, it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks or in freezer containers for up to a year. If you’re planning to store your jam for longer, it should be thawed before using.
How to Can Your Jam
When preparing your canning jars, wash them in hot soapy water and dry them thoroughly. Once dry, secure lids and bands. You can also place them in a hot water bath to sterilize them.
Once your canning jars are ready, fill them with your homemade blackberry jam. When you’re done, wipe the rims of the jars and remove any excess foam. Once you’ve filled your jars, you can now store them in the pantry or use them for making sweet gifts in a jar!
