The Soothing Power of Jam
As we navigate these uncertain times, comfort is more crucial than ever. And what’s more comforting than a sweet, tangy, and flavorful jar of homemade jam?
A Taste of Warmth
Artisan jam makers across the country are busy cooking up new batches of preserves, perfect for the approaching spring season. According to Jennifer Fisher, co-founder of Alchemist’s Jam in McMinnville, OR, jam has the power to unite and uplift. “When we make jam, we’re harnessing the power of the sun from summer fruit so that people can enjoy that warmth all year round.”
A Blast from the Past
Jam has a way of transporting us back to our childhood memories. Gillian Reynolds, founder of Jamnation in San Francisco, believes that jam captures the freshness and bounty of the outdoors in a jar. “Each of our flavors is based on one of my family memories and travels to 31 countries.” V Smiley, a small-batch jam maker from New Haven, VT, agrees, “You time travel when you eat great preserves.”
Practicality Meets Nostalgia
Jam is not only a comforting treat but also a practical way to preserve perishable fruit. Dafna Kory, owner of INNAjams and shrubs from Emeryville, CA, reminds us that jam is a reliable way to have fruity goodness around all year round. And with the current pantry-building trend, jam is a must-have staple.
Comfort in a Jar
For many, jam is a key player in evoking sweet childhood nostalgia. Zenobia Taylor-Weiss, founder of Cellar Door Preserves in Grand Rapids, MI, notes that jam reminds people of their mothers and grandmothers – the people who take care of us when we’re sick. Jennifer Fisher highlights the many faces of reassurance that jam brings, both to eaters and makers.
Jam Sales Soar
With the current demand for comfort food, jam sales are booming. V Smiley reports that customers are stocking up on bigger batches, while Zenobia Taylor-Weiss is marketing care packages that include jam and other cozy treats.
The Ultimate Comfort Food
So, how do the experts recommend consuming this miracle comfort food? Gillian Reynolds loves pairing jam with good cheese, while Zenobia Taylor-Weiss mixes it into her cocktails, oatmeal, and yogurt. V Smiley suggests using jam as a base for composed vegetable salads, and Jennifer Fisher swears by hot sourdough bread topped with fresh jam.
Make Your Own Jam
Want to try your hand at making your own jam? Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- Berries and sugar (1:1 ratio)
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon per cup of sugar)
Directions:
- Combine fruit and sugar together.
- Let it sit until juices come out, about 20 minutes.
- Put mixture over heat and let simmer until liquid evaporates enough so that the jam has taken a thick consistency.
- Test by coating the back of a spoon without drip.
- Remove from heat, stir in lemon juice, and then pour into airtight jars.
- Keep for 1 to 2 weeks in the refrigerator, or 3 months in the freezer.
Give it a try and experience the soothing power of jam for yourself!
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