Lingonberry Jam Recipe

This lingonberry jam recipe is irresistibly delicious and easy to prepare, perfect for breakfasts or any sweet indulgence. With a delightful blend of tart lingonberries and sweet sugar, it strikes a beautiful balance that complements various dishes. Due to its simplicity, this jam is an excellent choice for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. It offers a traditional approach to preserving fruit, ensuring that the fresh flavors are captured perfectly. Lingonberries, being rich in antioxidants, provide a healthy option for those looking to enjoy a guilt-free treat. The jam can be used as a spread on toast, a topping for desserts, or even stirred into yogurt. It also makes a wonderful gift when stored in decorative jars. This versatile recipe can even be adapted to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability. With only two main ingredients, it’s an economical and straightforward choice for homemade preserves. Dive into the world of lingonberry jam and enjoy a burst of flavor with every spoonful.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 1 kg lingonberries
• 1 kg sugar

Preparation Time

Total Time: 80 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Rinse and Pick: Begin by thoroughly rinsing the lingonberries to remove any debris or unwanted material. Sort through them to pick out any damaged berries.
2. Boil Water: Bring a large pot of water to a rolling boil.
3. Blanch Berries: Gently add the picked lingonberries into the boiling water and let them sit for about 5 minutes. This step helps to soften the berries and prepare them for mashing.
4. Sift the Berries: Use a slotted spoon to remove the blanched lingonberries from the pot, allowing excess water to drain.
5. Mash Through: Press the hot lingonberries through a sieve to create a smooth consistency. Catch the strained pulp and juice in a large bowl beneath.
6. Add Sugar: Incorporate the sugar into the sieved lingonberry pulp. Stir well to ensure that the sugar is evenly distributed throughout the berry mixture.
7. Heat Mixture: Transfer the berry and sugar mixture to a cooking pot. Gradually heat over medium flame while stirring continuously.
8. Dissolve Sugar: Keep stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved, and the mixture begins to thicken. This will take around 10 to 15 minutes.
9. Boil Gently: Allow the jam to come to a gentle boil, and maintain a steady temperature to prevent burning.
10. Test the Consistency: To check if the jam has set, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed, it's ready; if not, continue boiling.
11. Prepare Jars: While the mixture is simmering, sterilize your jars. Wash them thoroughly and place them in a low oven at about 100°C (212°F) for 10 minutes.
12. Fill Jars: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, pour the hot mixture into the sterilized jars, leaving a small gap at the top.
13. Seal and Sterilize: Seal the jars with lids, ensuring they are tight, and place them upside down.
14. Water Bath: Sterilize the sealed jars in a water bath for 20 minutes to ensure longevity and safety.
15. Let Cool: Let the jars cool completely in the inverted position, which helps to create a vacuum seal.
16. Store Properly: Keep the jars in a cool, dark place until ready to use.
17. Label the Jars: Don't forget to label your jars with the date and contents for easy identification.
18. Check for Seals: Before storing, ensure each jar is properly sealed by pressing the center of the lid. It should not flex or pop.
19. Revel in Flavor: Enjoy the fruits of your labor by incorporating the jam into your favorite dishes.
20. Share the Love: Consider gifting a jar to friends and family to spread the joy of homemade preserves.

Tips

• Substitutions: Try using honey or maple syrup instead of sugar for a different flavor profile.
• Texture Adjustments: If you prefer a chunkier jam, mash half the berries and keep the rest whole.
• Enhancements: Consider adding a touch of vanilla or a hint of cinnamon during the cooking process for added depth.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 2500 kcal for the entire batch
• Carbohydrates: 650g
• Protein: 2g
• Fats: 0g

Variations

• Low-Sugar Option: Use a sugar substitute or reduce the amount of sugar to create a lower-calorie version.
• Citrus Infusion: Add some lemon or orange zest for a zesty twist to the jam.

Serving Suggestions

• As a Spread: Spread on freshly baked bread or toast for a delightful breakfast.
• Dessert Topping: Use as a topping on ice cream, cheesecake, or yogurt.
• Meat Garnish: Pair with wild game or poultry dishes to balance savory flavors.

Best Places

• Fika Swedish Kitchen - Offers a variety of Nordic dishes that beautifully complement lingonberry jam. Location: 5B Market Lane, Manly, NSW, Australia.
• Stockholm Restaurant & Deli - Known for its authentic Swedish cuisine. Location: 1072 Milwaukee Ave, Deerfield, IL, USA.
• Husmanskost - Traditional Swedish café where lingonberry jam is a staple. Location: Skånegatan 51, Stockholm, Sweden.
• Smorgas Chef - Delight in Scandinavian flavors with a twist. Location: 53 Stone St, New York, NY, USA.
• Aquavit - A Michelin-starred restaurant providing upscale Nordic dining. Location: 65 E 55th St, New York, NY, USA.
• Scandic By Portalen - Offers a modern take on Swedish tradition. Location: Råsta Strandväg 1, Solna, Sweden.
• Pelikan - Iconic for its classic dishes and warm atmosphere. Location: Blekingegatan 40, Stockholm, Sweden.
• Restaurant Fjord - Features Nordic cuisine with a contemporary flair. Location: Kristian IV's Gate 11, Oslo, Norway.
• Røkka - Combines rustic charm with a creative menu. Location: Mariboes Gate 1, Oslo, Norway.
• Geranium - Recognized for its innovative Scandinavian dining experience. Location: Per Henrik Lings Allé 4, 8, Copenhagen, Denmark.