Elderberry Jam Recipe With Pectin For Easy Homemade Jam

There’s something truly magical about homemade jam, especially when it’s made with fresh, vibrant elderberries. Elderberry jam is not only deliciously rich and slightly tart, but it also packs a nutritional punch, known for its immune-boosting properties.

Using pectin in your recipe ensures that your jam sets perfectly every time, giving you that ideal spreadable texture without any guesswork. Whether you’re preserving the flavors of late summer or looking for a wholesome, fruity treat, elderberry jam is a delightful addition to your pantry.

In this recipe, I’ll guide you through the simple steps to make your own elderberry jam with pectin. From selecting the best berries to the essential equipment needed, you’ll gain confidence in preparing a batch that’s perfect for toast, desserts, or even as a gift.

Let’s dive into the wonderful world of elderberry jam!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This elderberry jam recipe is a perfect balance of tangy and sweet, enhanced by the natural depth of elderberries. Using pectin guarantees a consistent, luscious texture that’s easy to spread.

Plus, it’s a fantastic way to make the most of seasonal elderberries and enjoy their health benefits long after the harvest.

Quick and easy: The recipe is straightforward enough for beginners but satisfying for experienced jam makers.

Versatile use: Enjoy it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or use it as a glaze for meats.

Health benefits: Elderberries are loaded with antioxidants and vitamins, supporting your immune system naturally.

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh elderberries (stems removed and washed)
• 1/4 cup water
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1 box (1.75 oz) powdered fruit pectin
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
• Optional: 1 teaspoon vanilla extract for added warmth

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot for cooking the jam
• Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer or food mill (to remove seeds and stems)
• Jam jars (sterilized)
• Jar funnel (optional, but helpful)
• Ladle for filling jars
• Canning pot or large stockpot for water bath processing
• Kitchen towel for handling hot jars

Instructions

1. Prepare the elderberries: Remove all stems and leaves from the elderberries to avoid any bitterness and possible toxicity. Rinse the berries thoroughly under cold water.
2. Cook the berries: In a large pot, combine 4 cups of elderberries with 1/4 cup of water. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to simmer for about 10 minutes, crushing the berries gently with a spoon to release their juices.
3. Strain the mixture: Pour the cooked berries through a fine mesh strainer or food mill to separate the juice from seeds and skins. Press down with a spoon to extract as much juice as possible. You should have about 3 cups of elderberry juice.
4. Add pectin and lemon juice: Return the elderberry juice to the pot. Stir in the entire box of powdered fruit pectin and 2 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice. Bring the mixture back to a full rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly.
5. Add sugar: Quickly stir in 4 cups of granulated sugar all at once. Stir vigorously to dissolve the sugar completely. Return the mixture to a full rolling boil and boil for exactly 1 minute, stirring constantly. This step activates the pectin and helps the jam set.
6. Optional flavoring: Remove the pot from heat and stir in 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract for a subtle, warm note.
7. Fill sterilized jars: Using a ladle and jar funnel, carefully fill your sterilized jars with the hot jam, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace at the top.
8. Seal and process: Wipe jar rims clean with a damp cloth. Place lids and screw bands on tightly. Process jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper sealing and preservation.
9. Cool and store: Remove jars from the water bath and place them on a kitchen towel to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours. Check seals and store in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.

Tips & Variations

Always remove stems and leaves from elderberries: They contain compounds that can be toxic if consumed raw.

Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar to 3 cups but be aware this may affect the set.

• Spice it up: Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during cooking for a warm, spiced flavor. Remove before jarring.
• Mix berries: Combine elderberries with blackberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam.
• Low sugar alternative: Use low-sugar pectin and adjust sugar accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Note: Nutrition facts may vary depending on exact quantities and added ingredients.

Serving Suggestions

• Spread on warm toast or freshly baked scones for a delightful breakfast.
• Swirl into Greek yogurt or oatmeal for a burst of fruity flavor.
• Use as a glaze for roasted meats like pork or chicken for a sweet and tangy twist.
• Serve alongside cheese platters, especially sharp cheddar or goat cheese.
• Mix into vinaigrettes for salads to add a fruity complexity.

Conclusion

Making elderberry jam with pectin is a rewarding and enjoyable process that results in a flavorful, nutrient-rich preserve. This recipe is both straightforward and adaptable, allowing you to customize it to your taste preferences.

Whether you’re new to jam making or a seasoned pro, the consistent results you get from using pectin make this a go-to recipe for preserving the essence of elderberries.

Not only will you enjoy the taste, but you’ll also appreciate the health benefits and versatility of elderberry jam. It’s a perfect gift, a pantry staple, and a delicious way to bring the flavors of nature into your kitchen any time of year.

Happy jamming!

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