Freezer jam raspberry is a homemade jam made with fresh or frozen raspberries that is not cooked and can be stored in the freezer for up to one year.
Freezer Jam Vs Regular Jam
Freezer jam raspberry is a delicious alternative to regular jam because it is never cooked, preserving the fresh taste of perfectly ripe raspberries. With just four simple ingredients, this homemade raspberry jam can be stored in the freezer for up to one year.
Difference In Taste
The biggest difference between freezer jam and regular jam is in taste. Both are jams and are great on sandwiches, rolls, biscuits, and the like, but freezer jam is never cooked, thus making it taste fresh just like a perfectly ripe raspberry.
Preparation Method
Regular jam requires cooking the fruit with sugar and sometimes pectin to achieve a thick consistency that can be spread easily. On the other hand, freezer jam involves a simpler process. The fruit is typically mashed and mixed with sugar and pectin before being poured into containers and placed in the freezer. The lack of cooking helps preserve the fresh flavor of the raspberries.
Making Raspberry Freezer Jam
Indulge in the delightful process of making Raspberry Freezer Jam using fresh or frozen berries, a hint of lemon juice, sugar, and pectin. This easy, no-cook method preserves the fresh taste of perfectly ripe raspberries, and the jam can last in the freezer for up to a year.
Required Ingredients
To make delicious raspberry freezer jam, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh raspberries
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
- 1/2 cup water
Step-by-step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to make your own raspberry freezer jam:
- Wash the raspberries thoroughly and remove any stems or leaves.
- Mash the raspberries using a potato masher or a fork until you have a chunky consistency.
- In a large bowl, combine the mashed raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well and let it sit for 10 minutes.
- In the meantime, in a small saucepan, mix the fruit pectin and water. Bring it to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute.
- Add the boiled pectin mixture to the raspberry mixture and stir for 3 minutes, or until the sugar has completely dissolved.
- Transfer the jam into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top.
- Seal the jars tightly and let them sit at room temperature for 24 hours to allow the jam to set.
- After 24 hours, store the jars in the freezer for up to 1 year.
Making your own raspberry freezer jam is a simple and rewarding process. With just a few ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions, you can enjoy the sweet, tangy goodness of homemade jam. Whether you spread it on toast, drizzle it over pancakes, or use it as a filling for pastries, raspberry freezer jam is a versatile and delicious addition to any pantry. So why not give it a try and savor the taste of summer all year round?
Using Frozen Berries
When using frozen berries to make freezer jam, there are a few important things to keep in mind. Using frozen fruit for jam-making is an excellent way to enjoy the fresh taste of berries, even when they are not in season. Whether you have an abundance of frozen berries in the freezer from your own picking or have purchased them from the store, you can still create delicious freezer jam using these fruits.
Thawing Process
To use frozen berries for making jam, you’ll need to follow an appropriate thawing process. When it’s time to thaw the berries, place them in a bowl and leave them at room temperature until they are fully thawed. It’s important to avoid leaving the berries out for an extended period as this can result in a loss of flavor and nutrients.
Substituting Frozen Fruit For Fresh Fruit
When using frozen berries in place of fresh ones for jam-making, it’s essential to follow a straightforward substitution process. You can substitute an equal amount of frozen fruit for fresh fruit in your jam recipe. Thaw the frozen fruit to room temperature and ensure not to discard any excess juice that is produced during the thawing process.
Pectin In Freezer Jam
Pectin plays a vital role in the making of freezer jam. It is a natural substance found in fruits that acts as a thickening agent and helps the jam to set. In this section, we will explore the importance of pectin in freezer jam and the thickening process involved.
Importance Of Pectin
Pectin is a natural polysaccharide that is present in the cell walls of fruits. When mixed with sugar and acid, pectin undergoes a chemical reaction that allows the jam to thicken and set. Without pectin, the jam would remain runny and easily lose its shape.
Pectin not only helps to create the right texture in freezer jam but also enhances its shelf life. It acts as a preservative and prevents the growth of molds and bacteria. This ensures that your homemade raspberry freezer jam stays fresh and delicious for a longer period.
Thickening Process
The thickening process in freezer jam starts by combining pectin with sugar and acid. The acid, usually lemon juice, helps activate the pectin and create a gel-like consistency. The sugar provides sweetness and acts as a natural preservative.
Once the pectin, sugar, and acid are mixed, the mixture is then added to the fresh raspberries. The natural sugars in the raspberries react with the pectin mixture, causing the jam to thicken. This process allows the raspberries to retain their natural flavors and maintains the vibrant color of the jam.
Unlike traditional cooked jams, freezer jam sets by simply storing it in the freezer. This retains the freshness, aroma, and taste of the raspberries, giving your jam a burst of flavor with each spoonful.
Frequently Asked Questions Of Freezer Jam Raspberry
What’s The Difference Between Freezer Jam And Regular Jam?
Freezer jam and regular jam are both delicious on sandwiches, rolls, and biscuits. However, the key difference is that freezer jam is never cooked, giving it a fresh taste similar to perfectly ripe fruit. Regular jam, on the other hand, is cooked during the preparation process.
Do I Need To Defrost Raspberries To Make Jam?
No, you do not need to defrost raspberries to make jam. You can use frozen raspberries in the same way as fresh ones, just make sure to thaw them first. However, do not leave the frozen fruit out to thaw for too long.
Can You Use Frozen Berries To Make Freezer Jam?
Yes, you can use frozen berries to make freezer jam. Thaw the berries, use equal amount of fruit, and don’t drain excess juice.
Is Pectin Necessary For Freezer Jam?
No, pectin is not necessary for freezer jam. Freezer jam is made with ripe fruit, fresh ingredients, and a tested recipe. Pectin is used to thicken the fruit and make the jam.
Conclusion
Making raspberry freezer jam is a simple and rewarding process, allowing you to enjoy the fresh taste of ripe raspberries throughout the year. With minimal ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is a great way to preserve the natural flavors of the fruit.
Whether using fresh or frozen berries, homemade raspberry jam promises a delightful treat for any occasion.
Leave a Reply