This Small Batch Lower Sugar Blueberry Basil Jam is amazingly simple to make and offers the perfect addition to most breakfast favorites like biscuits and waffles.
Hi Friends!
Want to know what we have been eating for breakfast lately?! Surprise – pretty much anything you can top with this Small Batch Lower Sugar Blueberry Basil Jam! For the past few weeks, I have been making this recipe once a week. We have been topping whole grain waffles, toast, biscuits and much more with this delicious and less-sweetened blueberry basil jam. In fact, I made this jam with nearly half of the sugar that most jams are made with. The basil flavor compliments the blueberries well and adds a hint of sweetness.
In full disclosure, I have never had much of a desire to make jam, but a few weeks ago my neighbor went blueberry picking and made homemade jam with the blueberries. After tasting her delicious jam and hearing how simple the recipe was to make, I knew I had to try my hand at a homemade jam recipe. I also realized I needed to make the recipe as simple as possible.
I have not tried canning this recipe yet, but thus far have prepared and stored the jam in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a week. When not canning the jam it should last refrigerated for up to 7-10 days. If you are wanting a larger batch of jam or want to try canning it, you could easily double the recipe. We have enjoyed the small batch aspect and making a fresh batch each week.
On another note, did you know that July is National Berry month? Berries can include everything from blackberries to blueberries to raspberries. Berries offer numerous health benefits. Some types of berries contain antioxidants and ellagic acid, which may help improve brain function and prevent cancer. All berries are great sources of fiber, a nutrient that helps promote a healthy digestive system. More recent studies suggest berries may offer heart health benefits. Sold yet?
While blueberries are fabulous in a jam, there are lots of other things you do with blueberries. Try adding blueberries to your favorite salad, oatmeal, cold cereal, or smoothie.
Your Family’s Dietitian,
Small Batch Blueberry Basil Jam
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh blueberries
- 1/2 cup sugar (may want to add 2-4 more tbsp)
- 2-3 teaspoon lemon juice (can use fresh squeezed or bottled)
- 1 cup water
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil finely chopped
Instructions
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In a medium saucepan bring water to boil
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Add blueberries, sugar, and lemon juice; bring back to boil
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Reduce heat and let simmer about 20-25 minutes or until has thickened to a syrup-like consistency (it will thicken a bit more once cools)
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Add basil and let simmer for another 5 minutes
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Remove from heat and let cool; pour into a storage container. Keep refrigerated and should last about 7-10 days.