What You Will Need
Before you get started, gather the following ingredients and equipment:
- 4 cups of fresh raspberries
- 3 cups of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- Large pot or saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Glass jars with lids for storing
Step 1: Prepare the Raspberries
Start by washing the raspberries under cold running water and patting them dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel. Remove any stems or leaves and set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Raspberries
In a large pot or saucepan, combine the raspberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Gently stir to mix everything together. Place the pot on the stovetop over medium heat.
Continue stirring occasionally until the raspberries start to break down and release their juices. This process usually takes around 10-15 minutes. Use the wooden spoon to gently crush any remaining whole raspberries.
Step 3: Test for Doneness
Before proceeding, it’s important to check if the jam has reached the desired consistency. To do this, take a small plate and place it in the freezer for a few minutes. Spoon a small amount of the cooked raspberry mixture onto the chilled plate and wait for it to cool. If it thickens and wrinkles when touched gently, the jam is ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Step 4: Can and Store the Jam
While the jam is still hot, carefully ladle it into clean, sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth to ensure a proper seal. Place the lids on the jars and tighten them securely.
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing them in the refrigerator or pantry. Raspberry jam can be stored for up to one year if properly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place.
Step 5: Enjoy!
Now that you have made your own delicious raspberry jam, it’s time to savor the fruits of your labor. Spread it generously on toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or even drizzle it over ice cream for a heavenly treat. The possibilities are endless!
Making your own raspberry jam not only allows you to enjoy the taste of summer year-round but also gives you the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch. So, grab those raspberries and get jamming!