Ohelo Jam
Ohelo Jam offers a delightful burst of tartness and sweetness, highlighting the unique flavor of ohelo berries. Perfect for spreading on toast or using as a topping, this jam pairs well with breakfast favorites or as a gift for berry lovers seeking a Hawaiian-inspired treat.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the ohelo berries with 1 tablespoon of water until the berries break open.
- Combine the cooked berries with sugar, lemon rind, lemon juice, and Certo, then bring to a boil.
- Stir often until the sauce thickens.
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal with paraffin.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use ripe ohelo berries as they will yield the most flavor. If ohelo berries are not available, you can substitute with blueberries or blackberries. Adjust the sugar depending on the sweetness of your berries. Adding a pinch of salt can enhance the flavors. Keep stirring the jam to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot, especially when it starts to thicken.
Serving Suggestions
Ohelo jam is delightful when spread on toast or served alongside scones. It pairs beautifully with Chicken Thighs With Honey-Ginger Glaze for a sweet-savory meal. Use it as a topping for yogurt or oatmeal, or mix it into a Cabbage Fruit Salad for a refreshing twist. It can also be drizzled over pancakes or waffles for a breakfast treat.
Storage & Reheating
Store the sealed jars of ohelo jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator where it can last for several weeks. If you want to use it later, consider freezing the jam in airtight containers. To enjoy it warm, simply scoop out the desired amount and microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ohelo Jam contains roughly 283 calories, with 6g protein, 71g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (110% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and iron (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and protein. It also contributes 12g 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 frozen ohelo berries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen ohelo berries can be used, but make sure to thaw them first and drain any excess liquid. The texture may be slightly different, but the flavor will still be delicious. Adjust the cooking time as needed, since frozen berries may take longer to break down when boiling.
How do I know when the jam is thick enough?
To check if the jam has thickened properly, use the spoon test: dip a spoon into the jam, then lift it out and let it cool slightly. If it coats the back of the spoon and holds its shape, it's ready. You can also place a small amount on a plate and run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it's done.
What can I do if my jam doesn't set?
If your jam doesn't set after cooling, you can reheat it with more Certo according to the package instructions. Make sure to bring it back to a boil for a few minutes. If it still doesn't set, it can be used as a syrup or sauce instead, perfect for drizzling over desserts or mixing into drinks.
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).