Cherry and Currant Jam Delight

This delightful cherry and currant jam is a sweet and tangy spread that pairs perfectly with morning toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries. The combination of juicy cherries and slightly tart currants creates a well-balanced flavor that is both intense and refreshing. Making this jam is a rewarding process, allowing the natural sweetness of the fruit to shine through. With its vibrant color and rich taste, it makes an excellent homemade gift for friends or family. It’s an easy recipe that involves minimal ingredients, making it accessible for even beginner cooks. The preparation requires some patience as the flavors need time to meld, but the result is a delicious preserve that can be enjoyed long after cherry season has ended. The simplicity of this recipe makes it adaptable to various preferences, including adjustments for sweetness or added spices. It's perfect for enjoying a taste of summer all year round. Moreover, preparing your own jam ensures it’s free from artificial preservatives and tailored to your taste.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• Cherries: Equal parts, pitted
• Currants: Equal parts
• Sugar: To taste, based on fruit quantity

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 3 hours (Includes both prep and cooking)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. **Prepare the cherries**: Start by washing the cherries thoroughly and remove the pits. This process might take some time but is essential for a smooth texture in your jam.
2. **Mix with sugar**: Place the pitted cherries in a bowl and sprinkle them evenly with sugar. Allow them to sit for at least two hours. This helps the cherries release their juices, which contributes to the jam’s flavor.
3. **Prepare currants**: While the cherries are macerating, rinse the currants under cold water. Remove any stems or debris to ensure the fruit is clean.
4. **Cook the currants**: In a sturdy pot, add the cleaned currants and just a little water. Heat the pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Allow the currants to cook until they start breaking down and releasing their juices. This typically takes around 15–20 minutes.
5. **Combine ingredients**: Once the currants have cooked down, add the cherry and sugar mixture to the pot. Stir thoroughly to combine all the ingredients.
6. **Continue cooking**: Now, adjust the heat to a simmer. Cook for about 40 minutes, stirring frequently. This step is crucial to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking throughout.
7. **Test for thickness**: As the jam cooks, you'll notice it thickening. To test if it’s ready, place a spoonful on a plate and let it cool slightly. If it forms a gel-like consistency, it’s done.
8. **Prepare jars**: While the jam is finishing, prepare your jars by sterilizing them. This can be done by boiling them in water for at least 10 minutes.
9. **Fill the jars**: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the prepared jars. Leave about half an inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.
10. **Seal the jars**: After filling, wipe the rims clean and secure the lids tightly. This helps in creating a vacuum seal as the jam cools.
11. **Cool and store**: Allow the sealed jars to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place for up to one year.
12. Enjoy this delicious jam on freshly baked bread, with scones, or drizzled over ice cream for a special treat.

Tips

• For a thicker jam, you can add a small amount of pectin.
• Adjust the sugar based on your sweetness preference; less sugar will create a more tart jam.
• Ensure continuous stirring to prevent any burning at the bottom of the pot.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 50 per tablespoon
• Carbohydrates: 13g
• Sugars: 12g
• Protein: 0g
• Fats: 0g

Variations

• Spiced Version: Add a cinnamon stick or a pinch of nutmeg for a warm spice note.
• Reduced Sugar: Substitute some sugar with honey or a sugar substitute for a lower-calorie version.
• Citrus Twist: Add a tablespoon of lemon or orange zest for an additional layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over hot buttered toast for a delicious breakfast treat.
• Pair with soft cheeses like brie or cream cheese on a cracker for a sophisticated appetizer.
• Use as a filling for pastries, such as turnovers or tarts.

Best Places

• The Jam Café - A quaint spot known for its homemade jams and delicious breakfast offerings. Location: 556 Beatty St, Vancouver, Canada.
• Maison de la Confiture - Famous for its wide range of fruit preserves and charming ambiance. Location: 546 Chemin de Val de Mougins, Mougins, France.
• Bonne Maman Boutique - Offers a variety of artisanal jams and preserves. Location: 12 Rue de Sévigné, Paris, France.
• Raspberry Falls - A rustic café serving homemade raspberry and currant jams. Location: 172 Haugan Rd, Martin City, USA.
• Cherry Orchard Café - Known for their cherry-based beverages and jams. Location: 125 Main St E, Williamsburg, USA.
• Berry Delight Bistro - Serves innovative dishes incorporating their homemade jams. Location: 3475 Rue de la Montagne, Montreal, Canada.
• The Conserves Shop - Specializes in traditional and contemporary preserves. Location: 10 Unter den Linden, Berlin, Germany.
• Jam Corner - Offers gourmet breakfasts with an array of unique jam flavors. Location: 26 Palmer St, Townsville, Australia.
• Confiture Café & Bakery - Combines a love for pastries and homemade jams. Location: 849 Valencia St, San Francisco, USA.
• Preserve and Provisions - A must-visit for handmade jams and farm-to-table dishes. Location: 1005 Portage Ave, Winnipeg, Canada.