My Great Grandmother'S Beet Jam
A sweet and tangy beet jam infused with ginger and citrus, topped with crunchy nuts—perfect as a unique spread or accompaniment for cheese and bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and peel the beets.
- Put the beets through a meat grinder or grate them, or use a food processor.
- Barely cover the grated or ground beets with water and cook slowly until tender.
- Add sugar, grated ginger, lemon juice, and lemon rind to the cooked beets.
- Cook the mixture until thick and clear, about at least 1 hour.
- Chop the nuts and add them to the jam.
- Let the jam cool and then store.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoother texture, consider using a food processor to grind the beets. If you want a different flavor profile, try substituting the almonds or walnuts with pecans or hazelnuts. Fresh ginger can be used instead of ginger root for a more intense flavor. Remember to keep an eye on the mixture while it thickens to prevent burning.
Serving Suggestions
This beet jam pairs beautifully with toasted bread or cream cheese for a delightful breakfast or snack. It can also be used as a unique topping for pancakes or waffles. For a savory twist, try spreading it on grilled meats or adding it to charcuterie boards. Explore more unique spreads like Banana Pepper Spread for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Once cooled, transfer the beet jam to sterilized glass jars and seal tightly. Store it in the refrigerator, where it should keep for up to a month. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the jam in small portions. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of My Great Grandmother'S Beet Jam contains roughly 428 calories, with 11g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (95% of the Daily Value), iron (49% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (48% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 canned beets for this recipe?
While fresh beets provide the best texture and flavor, you can use canned beets in a pinch. Drain and rinse them before grinding, but be aware that the texture may be softer and the jam may not thicken as well.
How do I know when the jam is thick enough?
The jam is ready when it coats the back of a spoon and holds its shape. You can also do a plate test: place a spoonful on a cold plate and run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it's done.
Can I add spices to the jam?
Absolutely! Adding spices like cinnamon or nutmeg can enhance the flavor of your beet jam. Start with a small amount and adjust according to your taste preference to find the perfect balance.
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).