If you’ve ever tasted the delightful combination of tart rhubarb and sweet raspberries, you’ll know it’s a match made in jam heaven. This raspberry and rhubarb jam recipe brings together the best of both fruits, creating a luscious spread bursting with vibrant flavor.
Perfect for your morning toast, dolloped onto yogurt, or even as a filling for cakes and pastries, this jam is a versatile pantry staple that’s surprisingly easy to make at home.
Beyond its delightful taste, making your own jam lets you control the sweetness and ensures you’re using fresh, natural ingredients. Whether you’re a jam-making novice or a seasoned pro, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to your own jar of homemade goodness.
Ready to preserve the fresh flavors of summer? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This raspberry and rhubarb jam recipe is a fantastic way to capture the essence of early summer fruits. The tartness of rhubarb perfectly balances the sweet juiciness of raspberries, resulting in a jam that’s not overly sweet but delightfully flavorful.
It’s ideal for those who enjoy a hint of tanginess with their sweetness.
Additionally, this recipe uses simple ingredients you can find easily, and the process is straightforward, making it accessible for beginners. The jam sets beautifully thanks to the natural pectin in rhubarb, so you don’t need special additives.
Plus, homemade jam is free of preservatives and artificial flavors, making it a wholesome choice for your family.
Once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself inspired to experiment with other fruit combinations and even explore more homemade preserves. For more delicious plant-based recipes, check out Afghan Vegetarian Pulao Recipe Easy and Delicious Guide or Vegan Recipes No Tofu: Delicious Plant-Based Meals.
Ingredients
- 400g fresh raspberries (washed and drained)
- 400g rhubarb (trimmed and chopped into 1-inch pieces)
- 600g granulated sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 2 tablespoons)
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for a subtle flavor boost)
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed saucepan or jam pan
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Sterilized glass jars with lids (for storing the jam)
- Measuring scales
- Measuring spoons
- Chopping board and knife
- Jam thermometer (optional but helpful)
- Ladle and funnel (for easy jar filling)
Instructions
- Prepare the fruit: Rinse the raspberries gently under cold water and drain well. Trim the rhubarb stalks, removing any leaves (they are toxic), and chop into 1-inch pieces.
- Combine fruit and sugar: Place the rhubarb and raspberries in your large saucepan. Add the granulated sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
- Soak the mixture: Let the fruit and sugar mixture sit for about 30 minutes to an hour. This helps the sugar dissolve and draws out the fruit juices, which is key for the jam’s texture.
- Cook the jam: Put the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to avoid sticking. Once boiling, reduce the heat and continue to simmer gently for about 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally and mash the fruit slightly with your spoon to break down larger pieces.
- Check the setting point: To test if the jam has set, place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it cool for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it wrinkles and doesn’t flood back, it’s ready. If not, continue simmering and test every few minutes.
- Add vanilla extract: Once the jam has reached the setting point, stir in the vanilla extract if using. This adds a lovely depth of flavor.
- Jar the jam: Using a sterilized ladle and funnel, carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized glass jars. Leave about 1/4 inch headspace. Seal the jars immediately with sterilized lids.
- Cool and store: Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, label and store in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening and consume within 3 weeks.
Tips & Variations
“For a chunkier jam, mash less of the fruit during cooking. For a smoother texture, use a hand blender carefully at the end of cooking.”
- Adjust sweetness: You can reduce the sugar by up to 25% if you prefer a tarter jam, but keep in mind this may affect the setting time and preservation.
- Add spices: Try adding a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during cooking for a warm spice note. Remove the spices before jarring.
- Use frozen fruit: Both raspberries and rhubarb freeze well. Use thawed fruit and reduce soaking time accordingly.
- Boost pectin: If your rhubarb is very soft, add a tablespoon of commercial pectin to help the jam set.
- Experiment with citrus: Try adding orange zest or replacing lemon juice with lime juice for a different citrus twist.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per 1 tbsp (20g) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 50 |
| Carbohydrates | 13g |
| Sugars | 12g |
| Fiber | 1g |
| Protein | 0.2g |
| Fat | 0g |
| Vitamin C | 4% of daily value |
Serving Suggestions
This vibrant raspberry and rhubarb jam is incredibly versatile. Spread it generously over warm toast or fresh scones for a classic breakfast treat.
It also pairs wonderfully with creamy yogurt or oatmeal, adding a burst of fruity freshness to your morning routine.
Use it as a topping for desserts like cheesecake, ice cream, or pancakes to elevate the flavors. For a savory twist, serve a spoonful alongside roasted meats or cheese boards to balance salty flavors with a touch of sweetness and tang.
For more fresh and easy ideas, why not try the Baby Spinach Salad Recipe Vegan: Fresh & Easy Ideas or cozy up with a Vegan Potato Corn Chowder Recipe for Cozy Comfort Food.
Conclusion
Making your own raspberry and rhubarb jam is a rewarding experience that captures the fresh, tangy sweetness of summer fruits in a jar. This recipe balances the natural tartness of rhubarb with the juicy sweetness of raspberries, resulting in a deliciously vibrant jam that’s perfect for a variety of uses.
Whether you’re spreading it on toast, enhancing your desserts, or experimenting with new flavor combinations, homemade jam offers a taste and satisfaction that store-bought versions simply can’t match.
With easy-to-follow steps and simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for beginners and jam enthusiasts alike. Plus, it encourages you to get creative in the kitchen with variations and flavor add-ins.
Don’t forget to explore more delightful recipes to complement your homemade jam, such as the 400 Calorie Vegetarian Dinner Recipe Ideas for Healthy Meals. Happy cooking and preserving!
📖 Recipe Card: Raspberry and Rhubarb Jam
Description: A sweet and tangy homemade jam combining fresh raspberries and rhubarb. Perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT30M
Total Time: PT45M
Servings: 4 jars (about 4 cups)
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh raspberries
- 4 cups chopped rhubarb
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon butter (optional, to reduce foaming)
Instructions
- Wash and prepare the raspberries and rhubarb.
- Combine raspberries, rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, and zest in a large pot.
- Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to macerate.
- Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add butter if using to reduce foaming.
- Bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Test the jam consistency by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; it should wrinkle when pushed.
- Remove from heat and ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars.
- Seal jars and let cool before storing.
Nutrition: Calories: 120 | Protein: 1g | Fat: 0g | Carbs: 30g
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