Cranberry Jam with Vanilla

This delightful cranberry jam with vanilla is a splendid blend of tart cranberries, sweet sugar, and the rich aroma of vanilla, making it a perfect addition to your breakfast table or an indulgent topping for desserts. The balance between the tangy berries and smooth vanilla creates a sophisticated flavor profile that will impress guests and family alike. Not only is this jam delicious, but it is also quite simple to make, requiring just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time. The process of making this jam involves simmering the ingredients to release their flavors, resulting in a fragrant and beautifully colored preserve. The vanilla adds a unique depth and warmth, elevating the cranberry's natural tartness. Perfect for spreading on toast, mixing into yogurt, or even used as a filling for pastries, this jam offers versatility and delight. Furthermore, it can be stored for prolonged use, making it a convenient pantry staple. The recipe below provides step-by-step instructions to ensure a successful and enjoyable cooking experience, perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kg of cranberries
• 250-300 g of sugar
• 250-300 ml of water

Spices:

• 1-2 tablespoons of lemon juice
• 4 teaspoons of vanilla sugar
• 1 teaspoon of grated lemon zest

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 50 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Cranberries: Begin by washing the cranberries to remove any debris or stems. Drain them thoroughly.
2. Combine Ingredients: Place the cranberries into a large pot. Add the sugar, water, lemon juice, vanilla sugar, and grated lemon zest to the pot.
3. Mix Well: Stir the ingredients together until the sugar begins to dissolve slightly.
4. Heat the Mixture: Turn the stove to medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring that you stir occasionally to prevent sticking and to evenly distribute the sugar.
5. Simmer the Jam: Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to simmer the mixture. Stir constantly during this stage.
6. Cooking Time: Cook the jam for 5 to 10 minutes. The cranberries should start to burst, and the mixture will thicken as it cooks.
7. Check Consistency: To test the thickness, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. It should wrinkle slightly when touched after cooling for a minute or two.
8. Adjust Flavor if Needed: Taste the jam and adjust the sweetness or citrus as desired by adding more sugar or lemon juice.
9. Prepare Jars: While the jam is still hot, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
10. Fill the Jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving a small space at the top.
11. Seal the Jars: Seal the jars tightly with lids, ensuring there are no leaks.
12. Cool Down: Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. You may hear popping sounds as the jars seal.
13. Storage Advice: Once cool, store the jars in a cold cellar or refrigerator.
14. Check Seals: Before storing long-term, press down on the lid. If the lid moves up and down, it hasn't sealed properly and should be consumed first.
15. Serving Suggestions: Serve the jam with a vanilla bean yogurt parfait or on freshly baked scones.
16. Cleaning Up: Ensure the cooking area is cleaned immediately to prevent any sticky residue.
17. Labeling: Don't forget to label your jars with the date they were made.
18. Sharing: Jarred jams make excellent gifts, perfect for sharing the love and flavor with friends.
19. Experimentation: Feel free to experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or cloves for additional warmth.
20. Enjoy Your Creation: Rejoice in the accomplishment of creating a delicious, homemade jam.

Tips

• Substitutions: If lemon juice is not available, lime juice can be used as an alternative.
• Consistency Adjustments: For thicker jam, cook longer or add a little pectin.
• Storing: Unsealed jars should be kept in the fridge and used within a few weeks.
• Flavor Twist: Add a cinnamon stick while simmering for extra warmth.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 210 calories per 100 g
• Proteins: 0.5 g
• Fats: 0.2 g
• Carbs: 53 g

Variations

• Sugar-Free: Use a sugar substitute suitable for cooking to make a diabetic-friendly version.
• Berry Mix: Combine with blackberries or raspberries for a varied berry jam.
• Spiced Version: Add a touch of ginger or nutmeg for extra spice.

Serving Suggestions

• On Toast: Spread generously on whole grain or sourdough toast.
• Dessert Topping: Use as a topping for vanilla or plain cheesecake.
• With Meats: Pairs nicely with roasted turkey or pork for a savory touch.

Best Places

• The Jam Factory - A cozy spot known for its homemade jams and spreads. Location: 123 Flavors Road, London, UK.
• Sweet Preserves Café - Delights visitors with a wide range of delicate jams. Location: 456 Jam Lane, New York, USA.
• Confitures de Luxe - Offers luxurious jam experiences in the heart of Paris. Location: 789 Preserve Street, Paris, France.
• Berry Bliss - A must-visit for berry enthusiasts. Location: 321 Cranberry Row, Toronto, Canada.
• Vanilla Delight Bistro - Known for unique flavor combinations with vanilla. Location: 654 Aroma Avenue, Sydney, Australia.
• Jam & Scones Boutique - Perfect vintage-inspired spot for jam lovers. Location: 987 Spread Street, Wellington, New Zealand.
• Luscious Larders - Renowned for artisanal jam creations. Location: 135 Fruit Lane, Cape Town, South Africa.
• Sunrise Preserves - A beachside haven for jam enthusiasts. Location: 246 Sunshine Boulevard, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
• Berry Good Times Café - Famed for its experimental and seasonal jams. Location: 123 Preserve Point, Tokyo, Japan.
• The Preserve Corner - Offers a diverse selection of traditional and modern jams. Location: 456 Jam Junction, Berlin, Germany.