Homemade Mulberry Jam

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Homemade Mulberry Jam

Full Recipe: This Homemade Mulberry Jam is easy to make and is a great way to preserve the seasonal fruit. Packed with vitamins and antioxidants, it’s perfect for spreading on toast or adding to your favorite desserts.

Ingredients:

  • 4 cups fresh mulberries (washed)

  • 1 cup sugar (or a sugar substitute like stevia or monk fruit)

  • 2 tbsp lemon juice

  • 1/4 cup water

  • 1/2 tsp vanilla extract (optional)

  • 1 tbsp pectin (optional, for a thicker consistency)

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the fruit: Wash and remove any stems from the mulberries. Mash them gently with a fork or potato masher in a large saucepan, leaving a few whole berries for texture if desired.

  2. Cook the jam: Add the sugar, lemon juice, and water to the mashed mulberries in the saucepan. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.

  3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Stir regularly to prevent burning and check the consistency. If you’d like a thicker jam, add the pectin at this point.

  4. Check the consistency: To test if the jam is ready, place a spoonful of the mixture on a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute and then run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and doesn’t run, it’s done.

  5. Jar the jam: Remove the jam from heat and let it cool slightly. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top. Seal with lids and let them cool to room temperature.

  6. Refrigerate or preserve: Once cooled, store the jam in the fridge for up to a month. If you want to preserve it for a longer period, you can process the jars in a hot water bath for 10-15 minutes.

Description: Mulberry Jam is a sweet, fruity preserve made from fresh mulberries, sugar, and lemon juice. It is not only a delicious treat but also a great way to make the most of this seasonal fruit. The added lemon juice gives it a nice balance, while the sugar helps preserve the fruit for longer.

Notes:

  • If you prefer a smoother jam, you can blend the mulberries before cooking.

  • To reduce sugar content, use a natural sugar substitute like stevia or erythritol, which can still give a great taste without spiking blood sugar levels.

  • For a tangier flavor, you can add more lemon juice.

Tips:

  • Ensure that your jars are sterilized properly to avoid contamination and spoilage.

  • You can also experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for a warm, comforting flavor.

  • If you don’t have pectin, the jam will still thicken as it cooks, but using it helps achieve a more spreadable texture.

Servings: This recipe yields about 2-3 jars of jam.

Nutritional Info (per serving, approximately 1 tablespoon):

  • Calories: 45

  • Protein: 0g

  • Carbs: 12g

  • Fat: 0g

  • Fiber: 1g

  • Sugars: 10g

Benefits:

  • Vision Health: Mulberries are rich in vitamin A and other antioxidants that can help improve eyesight and protect against age-related vision loss.

  • Blood Pressure Regulation: Mulberries contain compounds that can help lower blood pressure and improve cardiovascular health.

  • Rich in Nutrients: High in vitamin C, fiber, and iron, mulberries are great for immune health, digestion, and boosting energy levels.

Q/A for the Recipe:

  • Can I use frozen mulberries for this recipe?
    Yes, you can use frozen mulberries, but ensure they are thawed and excess water is drained before using them.

  • Can I make this jam without sugar?
    Yes, you can use a natural sweetener like stevia, monk fruit, or any low-sugar substitute. However, the texture may differ slightly.

  • How long does this jam last?
    Homemade mulberry jam can last up to a month when refrigerated. For long-term storage, you can preserve it in a water bath canning process.

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