Blueberry & Lavender Jam

Blueberry & Lavender Jam is a delightful spread that brings together the sweet, juicy flavor of blueberries with the subtle floral notes of lavender. This unique jam is perfect for brightening up your breakfast, making it an excellent addition to toast, yogurt, or even desserts. Whether you’re enjoying it during a cozy brunch or gifting it to a friend, this jam is sure to impress with its vibrant color and distinct taste.

Why You’ll Love This Blueberry & Lavender Jam

This jam isn’t just delicious; it offers several wonderful benefits that make it a must-try.

• Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can craft this delightful jam.
• Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of blueberries and lavender creates a flavor that’s both sweet and aromatic—perfect for adventurous palates.
• Versatile Use: Spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or pair it with cheese for an exquisite appetizer.
• Perfect for Gifting: Homemade jams make beautiful gifts. Share this artisan jam with friends and family for holidays or special occasions.
• Healthy Alternative: Using honey instead of refined sugar adds natural sweetness and health benefits to your spread.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin making your Blueberry & Lavender Jam, gather your tools for a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Wide saucepan or skillet
• Mortar and pestle
• Ladle
• Sterilized half-pint jars

Importance of Each Tool

• Wide saucepan or skillet: Provides ample space for the jam to cook evenly without splattering.
• Mortar and pestle: Ideal for crushing lavender buds to release their full flavor potential.
• Ladle: Makes transferring hot jam into jars safe and easy.

Ingredients

Yield: About 3 half-pint jars
Total Time: 30 to 45 minutes
Skill Level: Beginner-friendly

For the Jam Base:

• 1 quart blueberries (fresh or frozen, about 1½ pounds or 680 g)
• 8 ounces honey (about 1 cup)
• Zest and juice of ½ lemon

For the Lavender:

• 1 tablespoon fresh or dried lavender buds (preferably culinary-grade)

How to Make Blueberry & Lavender Jam

Step 1: Prep the Lavender

Lightly crush the lavender buds using a mortar and pestle to release their aroma and flavor. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Jam Base

In a wide saucepan or skillet, combine the blueberries, honey, lemon zest, and lemon juice.
Set over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally as the berries soften. Gently mash them to your desired consistency.

Step 3: Simmer and Skim Foam

Let the mixture simmer gently. Foam may rise to the top—skim it off and reserve if you’d like to use it as a topping for yogurt or toast.

Step 4: Check for Set Point

The jam is ready when it reaches about 220°F (105°C) or when it wrinkles slightly when dropped onto a chilled plate and pushed with your finger. If it’s too runny, simmer for a few more minutes and retest.

Step 5: Add Lavender

Once the jam has thickened and passed the wrinkle test, remove it from the heat and stir in the crushed lavender buds.

Step 6: Jar and Store

For longer storage, ladle the hot jam into sterilized half-pint jars, seal them, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. For short-term use, allow to cool slightly before transferring to jars; store in the refrigerator for up to one month.

How to Serve Blueberry & Lavender Jam

Blueberry & Lavender Jam is a delightful spread that can elevate many dishes. Its unique flavor profile makes it perfect for both sweet and savory pairings. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this jam.

With Breakfast Items

• Toast – Spread a generous layer on your morning toast for a sweet start to your day.
• Pancakes – Drizzle over fluffy pancakes instead of syrup for a floral twist.
• Yogurt – Stir into yogurt for a refreshing and flavorful snack.

As a Cheese Accompaniment

• Soft Cheeses – Pair with cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a delightful contrast of flavors.
• Cheese Boards – Include it on your cheese board as a sweet complement to various cheeses and crackers.

Dessert Pairings

• Ice Cream – Top vanilla ice cream with the jam for an easy dessert that impresses.
• Cakes – Use it as a filling between cake layers or as a topping on frosted cakes.

Savory Dishes

• Glazed Meats – Brush on grilled chicken or pork for a sweet glaze that adds depth.
• Salad Dressing – Mix with olive oil and vinegar to create a unique dressing for salads.

How to Perfect Blueberry & Lavender Jam

Making the best Blueberry & Lavender Jam requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to help you achieve perfect results every time.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh blueberries and culinary lavender enhance the flavor significantly.
• Monitor Temperature – Use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches the correct temperature for setting.
• Adjust Sweetness – Taste the mixture before jarring; you can always add more honey if desired.
• Properly Sterilize Jars – Ensure jars are sterilized to prevent spoilage during storage.
• Experiment with Flavors – Feel free to add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for additional flavor complexity.

Best Side Dishes for Blueberry & Lavender Jam

Blueberry & Lavender Jam pairs well with various side dishes, enhancing their flavors. Here are some delicious options that complement this unique jam beautifully.

1. Cheese Platter – A mix of hard and soft cheeses enhances the sweetness of the jam while offering diverse textures.
2. Homemade Biscuits – Flaky biscuits are perfect for slathering with jam, making them an excellent breakfast item.
3. Fruit Salad – A refreshing fruit salad adds brightness, making it an ideal companion to this sweet jam.
4. Granola Bars – Homemade or store-bought granola bars paired with this jam offer a satisfying crunch and sweetness.
5. Savory Crackers – Crisp crackers provide a nice contrast, perfect for enjoying with cheese and jam together.
6. Oatmeal – Swirl into warm oatmeal for added sweetness and floral notes that brighten up breakfast.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Blueberry & Lavender Jam can be a delightful experience, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using Non-Culinary Lavender: Not all lavender is safe for consumption. Be sure to use culinary-grade lavender to avoid bitterness.
• Skipping the Lemon Juice: The lemon juice is crucial for balancing sweetness and helping the jam set. Don’t omit it!
• Not Monitoring Temperature: Ensure you check the temperature of your jam. It should reach about 220°F (105°C) for proper setting.
• Ignoring Foam Skimming: Skim off foam during cooking. This helps achieve a clearer jam with a better texture.
• Overcooking the Jam: If you cook the jam too long, it can become too thick or caramelized. Keep an eye on it during the final stages.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in sterilized jars with tight lids.
• Keeps well in the fridge for up to 1 month.

Freezing Instructions

• Use freezer-safe containers or jars.
• Can be frozen for up to 1 year, but be sure to leave some headspace for expansion.

Reheating Instructions

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and warm in an oven-safe dish until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts of 15-20 seconds, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Gently warm over low heat while stirring until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if my Blueberry & Lavender Jam has set?

The jam is set when it reaches about 220°F (105°C) or wrinkles slightly on a chilled plate when pushed.

Can I use other fruits with this recipe?

Yes! You can experiment with different fruits like raspberries or strawberries along with blueberries for unique flavors.

What can I pair with Blueberry & Lavender Jam?

This jam pairs wonderfully with soft cheeses, biscuits, and even vanilla ice cream.

How can I customize my Blueberry & Lavender Jam?

You can adjust the amount of lavender based on your taste preference. Try adding spices like cinnamon for extra warmth!

How long does homemade jam last?

Homemade Blueberry & Lavender Jam lasts about 1 month in the refrigerator and up to a year in the freezer if stored properly.

Final Thoughts

This Blueberry & Lavender Jam recipe is not only simple but also incredibly versatile. With its unique flavor profile, you can enjoy it on toast, paired with cheeses, or even as a topping on desserts. Feel free to customize it by adjusting sweetness or exploring different fruit combinations. Give it a try and discover how delightful homemade jams can be!