Cranberry Jam
A vibrant cranberry jam with sweet raisins and zesty orange flavors, perfect for spreading on toast or serving with cheese during festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick over cranberries and wash them; add raisins.
- Peel oranges and remove seeds.
- Combine fruits and chop them.
- Add sugar, salt, and water; cook until thick, about 30 minutes, stirring often.
- Pour into hot sterile jars and store in a cool place.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother jam, consider using a food processor to chop the cranberries and oranges. If you want a less sweet version, reduce the sugar by up to a cup or substitute with a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup. Adding a pinch of cinnamon can enhance the flavor profile. Ensure your jars are properly sterilized to prolong shelf life.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cranberry jam alongside breakfast items like toast or pancakes for a delightful start to your day. It pairs beautifully with Chicken With Spanish Sauce or can be used as a filling for pastries. For a festive touch, consider using it as a topping for cheesecake or yogurt, adding a splash of color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store the jam in a cool, dark place for up to a year if sealed properly. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within a month. To reheat, gently warm the jam in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until it reaches your desired consistency. This process can also revive any jam that has thickened too much.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cranberry Jam contains roughly 592 calories, with 7g protein, 155g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (93% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1788mg per serving (78% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen cranberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cranberries can be used in place of fresh ones. Just make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess liquid before proceeding with the recipe. This will ensure that the jam maintains the right consistency and flavor.
How can I tell when the jam is thick enough?
To check if the jam has thickened, perform the plate test. Place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; if it holds its shape and doesn't run back together, it's ready to be jarred.
Is it possible to reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce the sugar if you prefer a less sweet jam. However, keep in mind that sugar acts as a preservative, so reducing it may affect the shelf life. Consider using fruit juice or natural sweeteners as alternatives, but be mindful of how they may alter the flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).