Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by rinsing the blueberries really well under cold water and removing any stems. Place a saucer in the freezer to get cold.
- In a large pot, combine the blueberries, cane sugar, and lemon juice over medium-high heat. Bring everything to a boil until the sugar is dissolved and the berries begin to burst. Stir constantly to prevent scorching. Mash the blueberries with a potato masher while stirring to create more juice.
- After the sugar has dissolved, reduce the heat to a simmer. Continue simmering and stirring for around 15 minutes or until the jam has thickened.
- During the last 5 minutes of cooking time, stir in the bourbon. You don't want to add it too soon, or it will completely dissolve.
- Perform a saucer test on the jam to see if it's set: spoon a small amount of jam onto the cold saucer and let it slightly cool. The jam should wrinkle or have a little bit of film when you move it on the plate. It should also be thick and not very runny
- Place a sieve on top of a large mixing bowl and strain the jam through it to remove any skins and seeds. This will create a smooth jam.
- After straining, use a jar funnel to spoon the jam into clean half-pint jars. Be sure to clean the rims with white vinegar before adding the lids. Let the jam cool and set. Store in the fridge for around 4 weeks or use a water bath canning method to seal the jars by processing for 10 minutes.
Notes
The juicier the berries, the better your jam will turn out. quality, all natural ingredients will give your jam a sweet and vibrant flavor.
Smaller batches are easier to manage and ensure that all the flavors blend perfectly. Plus, it's a fun way to experiment without making too much at once.
Stir in the bourbon during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This keeps the bourbon from completely evaporating and gives your jam rich, vanilla undertones.
Keep stirring the mixture while it cooks to prevent it from burning and sticking to the pot. This helps keep the jam smooth and evenly cooked.
To check if your jam is set, spoon a small amount onto a cold saucer. If it wrinkles or forms a slight film when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
After cooking, strain the jam through a sieve to remove skins and seeds. This will give your jam a silky, smooth texture.
Make sure your jars are thoroughly cleaned and sterilized before filling them with jam. This is important for storing and keeping your jam fresh for longer.
This jam is a wonderful treat on biscuits, morning toast, pancakes, English muffins, or even as a unique topping for vanilla bean ice cream.
The combination of natural flavors of the blueberries and warm bourbon creates a rich, complex taste. Each bite offers layers of flavor that are both sweet and slightly boozy.
Homemade jam makes for a thoughtful and delicious present. Package it in a pretty jar with a ribbon, and you have a perfect gift for friends and family.
Try adding 1 tsp of vanilla extract and cardamom spice for a unique, next level flavor you'll love.