Perhaps this is the year you tried your hand at canning and made some delicious, homemade jam (go you!).
I’m hearing from a lot of people that chose to preserve some food through canning in the last couple of years, either to pass the time, or to finally try something they’ve always wanted to do, or simply so they could ensure their family had food put by for seasons to come.
Or, perhaps you grabbed a jar of homemade jam at a market or craft show this year. Maybe a relative gave you some of their bounty or a gift and it’s sitting in your pantry waiting for a special occasion to bring it out.
I’d love to share with you my Top 10 tips to grab that jar off the shelf and use it for more than just toast.
Swirl it. Add a spoonful into yogurt, oatmeal, or vanilla ice cream to punch up the flavor (try it with Blueberry Vanilla or Cherry Almond).
Bump up Breakfast. Top your pancakes, waffles or French toast with a spread of jam (try it with Pear Ginger or Harvest Butter).
Dip it. Mix one jar of jam with 8 oz. crème fraiche. Serve with graham crackers for a fun afternoon snack (try with Minnesota Mix or “Earl-y” Rhubarb).
Dessert. Dollop some jam onto shortbread cookies or spread between cake layers for a special dessert (try it with Passionate for Raspberries or Plum Cardamom).
Cocktail. Spoon a heaping spoonful into your favorite cocktail for a jam-tini (try it with Strawberry Rhubarb or Strawberry Elderflower).
Lunch time. Spread on a grilled cheese or turkey sandwich for a grown-up version of a classic (try with Honey & Spice Tomato).
Up those greens. Create a unique salad dressing by mixing 1 part jam, 1 part vinegar, and 2 parts oil, then top a bed of greens or salad (try with Strawberry Basil).
Meat! Brush onto baked or grilled salmon, chicken or pork chops for a yummy glaze (try with Bourbon Peach).
Charcuterie. Add to a cheese plate as a classy condiment (Dilly Beans and Pickled Asparagus also work here).
Easiest Appetizer Ever. Place 8 oz. softened cream cheese on a pretty plate, pour over one jar of jam, serve with crackers and you’ll always be prepared for guests (try with Red Pepper).
I firmly believe jam is for more than just toast. So, go ahead, grab that jar and enjoy it to the fullest!
(If you’re looking for some preservative-free jam and pickles, I’d love to help. Check out our shop here.)