Name: No Pectin Blueberry Jam Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cups Fresh Blueberries; 1/4 cup Granulated Sugar; Zest and juice of 1 Lemon

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Introduction

Making homemade blueberry jam is easier than you think, even without pectin. This simple recipe creates a deliciously fresh and naturally thickened jam perfect for toast, yogurt, or desserts.

The image shows a jar filled with dark purple blueberry jam with two whole blueberries floating on the top layer. To the top left, there are three slices of light brown bread with visible seeds. On the right side, there is a small round piece of bread spread with the same dark purple jam, next to a light wooden spreading knife. The background is a smooth bright yellow surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 cups fresh blueberries
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 lemon (zest and juice)

Instructions

Step 1: Combine the fresh blueberries, granulated sugar, and the zest and juice of one lemon in a medium saucepan. Place over medium heat and cook uncovered until the berries begin to soften.
Step 2: Use a potato masher or fork to gently mash the berries. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the mixture simmer for 20 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 3: Remove the saucepan from heat and allow the jam to cool. The mixture will thicken as it cools.
Step 4: Serve the jam chilled or at room temperature and enjoy your homemade blueberry treat.

Tips & Variations

For a smoother jam, mash the berries more thoroughly or use an immersion blender before simmering.
Add a pinch of cinnamon or vanilla extract during cooking for extra flavor.
If you prefer a sweeter jam, increase the sugar slightly but taste as you go.
To make it last longer, sterilize your storage jars before filling with jam.

Storage

Store the cooled jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freeze the jam in freezer-safe containers for up to three months. Reheat gently before use if desired.

How to Serve

The image shows a jar of dark purple blueberry jam with two whole blueberries on top, placed on a white marbled surface. Above the jar, there are three pieces of light brown toasted bread stacked loosely. To the right, a small round slice of bread is spread with the same dark purple jam. A small wooden spreader lies diagonally next to the jam-covered bread slice. The background is a bright yellow color, making the jam and bread stand out clearly. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Do I need to add pectin to make jam?

No, this recipe uses the natural pectin found in blueberries and lemon to thicken the jam. Simmering for 20 to 30 minutes helps achieve the right consistency without added pectin.

Can I use frozen blueberries for this jam?

Yes, frozen blueberries work well. Thaw them before cooking, then follow the same steps. Cooking time may be slightly longer to reach the desired thickness.