Recipe: Sea Buckthorn and Cranberry Jam

Recipe: Sea Buckthorn and Cranberry Jam

Sea buckthorn and cranberry jam is a delightful way to preserve the flavors of these two fruits, each offering its own unique taste. The sea buckthorn, with its distinct tangy flavor, combines perfectly with the tartness of cranberries to create a jam that’s both vibrant and delicious. This jam makes a great topping for toast, pancakes, or yogurt, and it can also be used as a filling for pastries or a glaze for meats.

Making homemade jam is easy and rewarding, and this recipe is no exception. With just a few ingredients, you can create a sweet and tangy jam that captures the essence of both fruits. Let’s walk through the steps to make this lovely jam at home.

Ingredients

• 2 cups sea buckthorn berries (fresh or frozen)
• 2 cups cranberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 1/2 cups sugar (or adjust to taste)
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)

Equipment:

• Large saucepan
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sterilized jars or containers for storage

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Fruit

1. Wash the Berries
   If you’re using fresh sea buckthorn and cranberries, wash them thoroughly under cold running water. If using frozen fruit, ensure that they are thawed before starting the jam-making process.

2. Mash the Fruit
   In a large saucepan, add both the sea buckthorn and cranberries. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to lightly mash the berries. This helps to release the juices and ensures that the jam has a smooth consistency once it’s cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Jam

1. Add Sugar, Water, and Lemon Juice
   After mashing the berries, add the sugar, lemon juice, and water to the saucepan. Stir the mixture gently to combine all the ingredients.

2. Bring to a Simmer
   Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir occasionally to dissolve the sugar and prevent the fruit from sticking to the bottom of the pan. The berries will release their juices, and the mixture will begin to thicken.

3. Simmer Until Thickened
   Let the jam simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring regularly. As the mixture simmers, it will reduce and thicken. Keep an eye on the consistency—if you prefer a thicker jam, let it cook for a few more minutes. You can check the thickness by placing a spoonful on a cold plate; if it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.

4. Add Vanilla (Optional)
   If you want to add a touch of warmth and depth to your jam, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract once the jam has thickened. This is optional but adds a wonderful flavor layer.

Step 3: Can or Store the Jam

1. Sterilize the Jars
   While the jam is cooking, sterilize your jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a dishwasher on the hottest setting. This ensures the jars are free of bacteria and ready to store your jam.

2. Transfer the Jam to Jars
   Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully ladle it into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top. Seal the jars with their lids while the jam is still hot.

3. Let the Jam Cool
   Allow the jam to cool completely at room temperature before storing. Once cooled, the jam will set further, achieving the perfect spreadable consistency.

4. Store
   Store the jars in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. Once opened, keep the jam refrigerated and consume within a few weeks.

Tips and Variations

1. Adjust Sweetness
   Depending on the natural sweetness of your sea buckthorn and cranberries, you can adjust the amount of sugar used in the recipe. If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar slightly, or use a natural sweetener like honey or agave syrup.

2. Add Spices
   For added complexity, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or ginger to the jam while it simmers. These spices pair wonderfully with the tart fruit flavors and give the jam a cozy, aromatic quality.

3. Make It Less Tart
   If you prefer a milder, less tart jam, you can add a bit of apple or pear puree to the mix. These fruits will soften the tartness of the cranberries and sea buckthorn while still keeping the jam flavorful.

4. No-Heat Version
   For a no-cook option, you can blend the fruit, sweetener, and lemon juice and refrigerate it. However, the texture may not be as smooth and spreadable as a cooked jam, and it will have a looser consistency.

Health Benefits

1. Sea Buckthorn
   Sea buckthorn is packed with antioxidants, vitamin C, and omega-7 fatty acids. It has anti-inflammatory properties and supports heart and skin health.

2. Cranberries
   Cranberries are known for their high vitamin C content and their ability to support urinary tract health. They’re also rich in antioxidants and can help reduce inflammation.

3. Lemon Juice
   Lemon juice is a natural source of vitamin C, which is essential for immune function and skin health. It also adds a refreshing tang to the jam, balancing the sweetness.

Conclusion

Sea buckthorn and cranberry jam is a delicious and vibrant treat that combines the unique flavors of two powerful fruits. Whether spread on toast, served with cheese, or enjoyed as a topping for yogurt or desserts, this jam is versatile and bursting with health benefits. It’s easy to make and a wonderful way to preserve the fruits of the season for months to come.

Try this recipe today and experience the tangy, sweet, and slightly spicy flavor combination of sea buckthorn and cranberries in every spoonful!