Making jam is an age-old tradition, and we’re here to make it even better. Jam jars have been around for centuries, but with a few modern twists, we can create something totally unique and delicious.
In this blog post, we’ll explore a little bit of the humble jam jar’s story and give you a recipe for a super special jar of jam that your friends and family will love.
The Jam Jar
Jam jars have historically been used to preserve fruit by boiling it in sugar (making jam). This process creates flavoursome jams that keep well in sealed jars. Traditional recipes call for strawberries or other soft fruits, as these work best with the jelly-like texture created from boiling them down with sugar.
However, with today’s technology and access to more exotic ingredients, there’s no need to be limited to traditional recipes!
Jam jars are a great way to store many things, other than just jam! Medium sized jam jars can be used to store spices, nuts, dried fruits, while smaller jars can be used to store small items such as buttons and nails, or seeds for planting. Jam jars also make excellent candle holders when decorated with ribbons and lace.
Furthermore, jam jars can be used for a wide range of other things. Take a look at our blog which explores 8 ways to repurpose glass jars. They can also be used for crafts such as making terrariums or layering different coloured sand for a unique decoration.
Finally, jam jars make great containers for homemade food gifts - simply fill them up with your favourite treats and decorate with ribbon!
Sterilising jam jars
Sterilising jam jars is an important step when preserving homemade jams. To do this, make sure jars are washed and dried thoroughly. Place the empty jars on a baking sheet and heat them in the oven set to 140 degrees Celsius for around 15 minutes.
Alternatively, you can sterilise Jam jars by covering them with cold water and bringing it to the boil. Leave in boiling water for 10 minutes then remove with tongs and let them air dry on a rack before using. Following these steps will ensure your jam stays fresh and full of flavour for longer!
Tip: how to open a jammed jar
Opening a jam jar can be tricky at times, especially if it has become jammed. If the jar is made of glass, the best way to open the lid is to place it in hot water for 5-10 minutes - this should help to loosen any stuck residue and make opening easier.
Alternatively, you can tap the lid of the glass jar gently a few times on the edge of the kitchen counter as you slowly rotate it. This will loosen the lid enough for you to gently twist the lid off.
Unique Jam recipe
Now is the time to get creative with your jam jars. Here’s a recipe for one of our favourite non-traditional jams: Apple Spice Jam!
Take one cup of diced apples (we like pink lady or granny smith), add half a cup of water and bring to a boil in a saucepan on medium heat.
Once boiling, stir in three tablespoons of light brown sugar and reduce heat until mixture has reduced slightly (about 7 minutes).
Add one teaspoon each of ground cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice; plus one tablespoon of fresh lemon juice then simmer for another 3 minutes until the apples are tender and the syrup has thickened.
Allow jam to cool before transferring into sterilised jars and sealing shut.
This zesty apple spice jam goes great with toast or spooned over ice cream - it just might become your new favourite treat!
And don’t forget - making jam doesn't have to mean sticking solely to traditional recipes; get creative with unusual flavour combinations and have fun creating something truly memorable! We’ve got a few jam recipes on our blog page, so why not head over and check them out.
We hope you’ve enjoyed reading about the jam jar’s history and trying out our recipe for yourself. If you’re looking to get your hands on some high-quality jam jars with lids, then be sure to check out our shop page. We have a wide selection of different styles and sizes for you to choose from so that you can create the perfect batch of jam.