Ah, the deliciously sweet and tangy Classic Concord Grape Jam! It’s an absolute treat, especially if you’ve never made it on your own before. If you have, then you already know the sheer joy that awaits you – it’s nothing like those overpriced jars from the grocery store! This jam is especially perfect for adding that extra bit of somethin’ somethin’ to breakfast pancakes or on freshly baked bread. It’s also a fantastic gift idea. Trust me, the mouth-watering taste of this jam is something your friends and family will rave about. The best part? It’s a simple recipe – and I’m here to walk you through it.
Let’s quickly go over the vitals:
- Prep time: 30 mins
- Cook time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour 30 mins
- Servings: Around 5 jars
- Yield: 5 pints
So, let’s jump right in shall we? Stick with me and soon enough you’ll be whipping up a batch of the most heavenly grape jam in your neighborhood.
Ingredients & Equipment You’ll Need
Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- 8 cups concord grapes
- 7 cups granulated white sugar
- 1 packet of fruit pectin
You’ll also need to have the following equipment:
- A large pot
- Jelly Jars
- A wooden spoon
- Jelly Bag or Cheese Cloth
We’re using concord grapes for this recipe because those babies yield a rich, robustly flavored jam; just the perfect sweet and tangy balance. The fruit pectin helps the jam set properly. Should concord grapes be unavailable, fear not! You can substitute with red or black seedless grapes.
How To Make Classic Concord Grape Jam
- Start by washing the grapes thoroughly and removing the stems. This step is crucial for ensuring your jam is clean and hygienic.
- Next, extract the grape juice. You’ll do this by placing the grapes in a large pot over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Use your wooden spoon to crush the softened grapes and let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes.
- At this stage, you’ll want to separate the grape skins from the juice. An easy way to do this is by pouring them into a jelly bag or a cheese cloth and letting the juice drip out.
- Back into the pot the juice goes! Stir in the sugar and cook over medium heat, ensuring the sugar is completely dissolved.
- As the mixture starts to boil, stir in the fruit pectin, then cook for an additional minute.
- Finally, ladle the hot jam into pre-sanitized jelly jars, seal them, and then proceed to process in a boiling water bath.
Tips For The Best Results
- Ensure your grapes are mature for the best flavor.
- Make sure to seal the jars tightly. You don’t want any air getting in.
Storage Tips
- Keep the jars in a cool and dark place for long shelf life.
- If opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use other types of grapes?
A: Yes, you can use red or black seedless grapes as a substitute.
Q: How long will the jam last?
A: If unopened and stored properly, it can last for up to 1 year.
Q: How long should I process the jars in boiling water?
A: You should process the jars for 10 minutes in boiling water.
Q: Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
A: The high sugar content not only sweetens the jam, but also aids in its preservation. However, you can reduce the quantity if you prefer, though the shelf life and the consistency of the jam might change.
Q: Can I double this recipe?
A: Sure! Just make sure you’re using a large enough pot.
Nutritional Facts of Classic Concord Grape Jam
- Calories: 58
- Fiber: 0.35 grams
- Sugar: 14 grams
- Vitamin C: 8 mg
- Vitamin K: 6 mcg
Phew, that was jam-packed (pun intended)! With this Classic Concord Grape Jam Recipe in your culinary arsenal, you can add a delectable homemade touch to your breakfasts or anytime snacks. Consider pairing this jam with fresh croissants or layering it in a peanut butter and jelly sandwich ��� it’s a treat no matter how it’s served! Enjoy your jammin’
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