Rowan berry jam with honey

Here's a recipe for Rowan Berry Jam with Honey:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups rowan berries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups honey (preferably a mild-flavored honey)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 medium apple (peeled, cored, and grated) – optional, for added pectin

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Rowan Berries:

   • If using fresh rowan berries, remove them from the stems, rinse well, and discard any damaged or unripe berries. If using frozen berries, simply thaw them slightly.
   • Some people recommend freezing rowan berries for at least 24 hours before making jam, as this helps reduce their natural bitterness.

2. Cook the Berries:

   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the rowan berries, water, and lemon juice.
   • If you’re using the grated apple for extra pectin (which helps the jam set), add it to the pot as well.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the berries soften and start to burst.

3. Add the Honey:

   • Stir in the honey, ensuring it’s well incorporated with the fruit mixture.
   • Continue to cook the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, for another 30-40 minutes. The jam should begin to thicken as it cooks.

4. Blend the Jam (Optional):

   • If you prefer a smoother jam, you can use an immersion blender to carefully blend the mixture to your desired consistency. For a more rustic texture, leave some berries whole.

5. Check for Doneness:

   • To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s done. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.

6. Jar the Jam:

   • Remove the pot from the heat and carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
   • Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth, place the lids on top, and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.

7. Process the Jars:

   • Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal and longer shelf life.
   • Remove the jars and let them cool completely on a towel-lined surface. You should hear the lids pop as they seal.

8. Store:

   • Once cooled, check the seals. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
   • Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Enjoy!

Rowan berry jam with honey is a unique and richly flavored spread. The tartness of the rowan berries is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of the honey, creating a jam that’s perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with cheese, or using as a glaze for meats and roasted vegetables.