Jam lovers, prepare to elevate your taste buds with a delightful twist on a classic favorite—tea-infused berry jam! Combining the rich, aromatic flavors of tea with the natural sweetness of fresh berries, this jam is perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or even as a filling for desserts. Whether you’re a fan of black tea, green tea, or herbal varieties, this recipe can be easily adapted to suit your preferences. Let’s dive into this simple yet sophisticated recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Why Tea-Infused Jam?
Tea-infused jam is not just a unique way to enjoy your favorite teas, but it also adds an extra layer of depth to the fruity sweetness of traditional jams. The tannins in the tea bring out the complexity of the berries, creating a more nuanced flavor profile that is both familiar and exciting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to experiment with different tea blends and discover new flavor combinations!
The Perfect Pairing: Tea and Berries
For this recipe, we’re using a mix of strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries, but feel free to customize the fruit blend to your liking. Black tea is used here for its robust flavor, but green tea, chai, or even an herbal blend can add their own unique twist. The key is to choose a tea that complements the natural flavors of the berries.
Recipe: Tea-Infused Berry Jam
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, or your choice)
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1/2 cup strong brewed black tea (or your preferred tea)
- 1 packet fruit pectin (optional, for a thicker jam)
Instructions:
- Brew the Tea: Start by brewing 1/2 cup of strong tea. Steep 2-3 tea bags (or the equivalent in loose-leaf tea) in hot water for about 5 minutes, then set aside to cool. This will be the flavorful base that infuses your jam with a rich tea essence.
- Cook the Berries: In a large pot, combine your mixed berries and lemon juice. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries start to break down—this usually takes about 10-15 minutes. The lemon juice adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness and helps set the jam.
- Infuse with Tea and Sweeten: Once the berries have softened, pour in the brewed tea and stir to combine. Gradually add the sugar, stirring constantly until it dissolves completely. The tea will infuse its flavor into the berries, creating a beautifully aromatic jam.
- Simmer to Perfection: Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue to cook, stirring frequently, until the mixture thickens—about 15-20 minutes. If you prefer a thicker jam, add a packet of fruit pectin at this stage and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Test the Jam’s Readiness: To ensure your jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles slightly when you push it with your finger, it’s done. If it’s still too runny, continue to cook and test again.
- Jar and Store: Remove the jam from heat and let it cool slightly. Pour the jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Seal the jars with lids and let them cool completely. Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or process in a water bath canner for long-term storage.
Serving Suggestions
This tea-infused berry jam is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways:
- On Toast: Spread it over a slice of warm, buttered toast for a comforting breakfast or snack.
- With Scones: Pair it with clotted cream and freshly baked scones for a traditional afternoon tea treat.
- As a Dessert Filling: Use it as a filling for cakes, tarts, or even as a topping for ice cream.
Experiment and Enjoy!
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can experiment with different teas and fruits to create your own signature jam. Whether you prefer the boldness of black tea, the subtlety of green tea, or the fragrant notes of an herbal blend, the possibilities are endless. So, get creative and enjoy the delicious fusion of flavors in your homemade tea-infused jam!