Healthy Blueberry Jam

Ingredient Notes

• Wild blueberries: Wild blueberries have a more intense flavor compared to cultivated varieties, adding depth to the jam. Frozen Maine wild blueberries are convenient and retain their freshness well.
• Agar agar powder: Instead of relying on traditional gelatin or excessive amounts of sugar for thickening, this recipe uses agar agar powder. It’s a natural thickener that adds texture and body to the jam without compromising its health benefits.
• Demerara sugar: Demerara sugar adds a rich, caramel-like flavor and a subtle crunch to the jam.
• Stevia (optional): Stevia can be used as a natural sweetener to reduce the overall sugar content of the jam. 
• Vanilla extract: Go for pure vanilla extract for the best flavor.

Chef Tip: If you’re using American wild blueberries or regular blueberries, note that they are less tart than the Norwegian blueberries we used. You’ll get a better result if you add in 2 teaspoons of fresh lemon juice when not using Norwegian blueberries.

How to Make Blueberry Jam with Less Sugar

1. Combine the agar agar with the frozen blueberries in a saucepan.
2. Bring to a rolling boil over medium heat.
3. Simmer for about 5 minutes, just until the blueberries begin breaking down.
4. Turn off the heat before stirring in the vanilla, sugar, and stevia (if using).
5. After cooking, allow the jam to cool completely at room temperature before transferring it to jars for storage. This helps the jam set properly and prevents condensation from forming inside the jars.
6. Once the jam has cooled, carefully ladle it into jars, leaving a small amount of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue, then seal them tightly with the lids.

Chef Tip: Before filling the jars with jam, ensure they are clean and sterilized to prevent spoilage. Wash the jars and lids in hot, soapy water, then sterilize them by boiling them in a large pot of water for 10 minutes. Alternatively, you can run them through a dishwasher cycle.

A Few Tips for Making This Jam

• Stir frequently: Stir the jam frequently while cooking to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot and burning. This helps distribute the heat evenly and ensures a smooth, lump-free texture.
• Add acid for balance: If your blueberries are very sweet, adding a splash of lemon juice can help balance the taste.
• Let jam set properly: Allow the jam to cool and set properly before sealing the jars. This may take several hours or overnight. Avoid disturbing the jars while the jam sets to prevent crystallization.
• Label and date jars: Once the jam has cooled and set, label each jar with the date of preparation and store them in the fridge.
• If your jam didn’t set properly: If your blueberry jam turns out too runny, you can try cooking it for a bit longer to evaporate more moisture and thicken it. 
• If you prefer a smoother jam: Blend the jam in blender before putting in jars. Be careful as the jam is hot!

Recipe Variations and Add-Ins

Here are some fun ways to tweak this recipe:

• Mixed berry jam: Use other berries, such as raspberries, strawberries, or blackberries to create a mixed berry jam with various flavors and colors.
• Herbal infusions: Infuse the jam with fresh herbs like basil, mint, or lavender. 
• Citrus zest: Enhance the bright, fruity flavors of the blueberries by adding zest from citrus fruits such as oranges, limes, or grapefruits.
• Chia seeds: For added texture and nutritional benefits, omit the agar agar and stir in chia seeds after cooking the jam. Chia seeds thicken the jam naturally and provide a source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids.
• Almond extract: A drop of almond extract pairs beautifully with the natural sweetness of the blueberries and adds a hint of nuttiness.

More Easy Jams and Spreads

• Healthy Strawberry Jam
• Homemade Raspberry Jam
• Apple Butter