Rowan Berry Jam

Rowan Berry Jam is a delightful and somewhat bitter preserve made with the vibrant berries of the rowan tree. These berries, known for their unique flavor and rich nutrient content, are transformed into a delicious jam that perfectly balances tartness and sweetness. This jam is not only a wonderful addition to breakfast spreads but also a unique ingredient in various desserts and sauces. Making rowan berry jam involves freezing the berries to remove their natural bitterness, then juicing and cooking them with sugar until a smooth consistency is achieved. The result is a stunning jam that adds a burst of color and flavor to any dish. Perfect for those who appreciate traditional recipes and flavors, this jam can enliven a simple toast or complement more sophisticated meals. Easy to prepare, it requires just a few ingredients and a bit of patience to let the flavors meld. Whether you're an experienced preserver or a newbie looking for new culinary adventures, this recipe is a wonderful project. Let's dive into how to make this simple and unique treat!

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

Rowan berries
Sugar
Rowan berry juice

Preparation Time

Total preparation and cooking time: **60 minutes**

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by gathering fresh rowan berries from the tree. Make sure to pick ripe, bright red berries, as they are best suited for making jam.
Wash the rowan berries thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or impurities.
Place the cleaned berries in a freezer and let them remain frozen for at least 24 hours. This process helps to diminish the natural bitterness in the berries.
Once the berries are properly frozen, remove them from the freezer and allow them to thaw.
After thawing, extract the juice from the berries by crushing them, using a juicer or a manual press for efficiency.
Pour the extracted juice into a large saucepan.
Set the saucepan over medium heat, bringing the juice to a gentle boil.
Add sugar to the boiling juice, using the ratio of 1 kilogram of sugar for every liter of juice.
Stir the mixture continuously to ensure the sugar dissolves completely in the juice.
Continue to boil the juice and sugar mixture, allowing it to reduce and thicken.
Observe the changing color of the juice; it should turn from a bright red to a deeper, more intense hue.
Maintain a consistent stir to prevent sticking or burning at the bottom of the pan.
Once the jam reaches your desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Pour the jam into sterilized glass jars, sealing them tightly.
Allow the jam to cool completely before storing it in a cool, dark place.
This jam is slightly bitter yet exceptionally healthy, making it a unique addition to your pantry.
Serve the jam on toast, pair it with cheeses, or use it as a glaze for meats for a special treat.
If you prefer a smoother consistency, blend the jam slightly before jarring it.
Store the opened jam in a refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks for the best flavor.

Tips

If you can’t find rowan berries, cranberries can be a good substitute for a similar tart flavor.
Ensure that the jars are sterilized to prolong the shelf life of the jam.
Adding a dash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor and preserve the jam naturally.

Nutritions

Calories: **45** per tablespoon
Carbohydrates: **12g**
Sugars: **11g**
Protein: **0g**
Fat: **0g**

Variations

Add a pinch of cinnamon for a spicy twist.
Mix in some finely chopped apples to dilute the bitterness.
For a sugar-free version, use a natural sweetener like stevia.

Serving Suggestions

Serve on freshly baked bread or scones for a rustic breakfast.
Use as a filling for cakes and pastries for a surprise flavor.
Pair with goat cheese for an exquisite appetizer.

Best Places

Cafe Tart - Known for their artisanal jams and fresh bread. Location: 123 Gourmet Lane, Paris, France.
Berry Delights - Specializes in berry-infused treats. Location: 456 Berry Rd, Dublin, Ireland.
Jam & Tea House - Cozy spot offering homemade preserves and teas. Location: 789 Tea St, London, UK.
Nordic Flavors - Celebrated for traditional Nordic dishes with a modern twist. Location: 987 Fjord Ave, Oslo, Norway.
The Preservation Society - Purveyors of unique and rare jams. Location: 654 Culinary Blvd, New York, USA.
Sweet & Savory - Offers a range of sweet and savory preserves. Location: 321 Maple St, Toronto, Canada.
The Jam Jar Cafe - Famed for their extensive jam selection and live music. Location: 269 Orchard Ln, Melbourne, Australia.
Preserve & Co. - Boutique cafe focusing on sustainable preserves. Location: 742 Greenway Dr, Wellington, New Zealand.
Nature's Pantry - Known for organic and natural products. Location: 158 Eco Rd, Cape Town, South Africa.
Gourmet Grooves - Offering a unique combination of food and live music. Location: 516 Harmony Ln, Tokyo, Japan.