The WI Real Jam Festival at Denman College

AUTUMN BERRIES AND
CHERRY JAM

Microwave method. Yield: 2.2kg (5lbs)

INGREDIENTS:

400g (14oz) Mixed Autumn berries (fresh or frozen)
115g (4oz) stoned cherries
500g (1lb 2oz) jam sugar

METHOD:

Blend defrosted fruit briefly and place in a large microwave bowl.
Combine with cherries, add sugar and stir well.
Microwave on High power for 3 minutes, then stir.
Repeat for a further 3 minutes, then stir.
Repeat for a further 2 minutes then check setting point. Microwave for a further 1 minute if necessary.
Pour into warmed jars and cover whilst hot.

COOK'S TIPS:

Use dry, unblemished and not overripe fruit. Jam sugar is specified for some recipes – this is sugar with added citric acid and aids the setting of jam when using fruit with little natural setting agent (pectin), such as strawberries.
All equipment must be scrupulously clean. First of all your jars and lids must be sterilised. If you have a dishwasher, put them through a high heat cycle (or wash and rinse them well in hot water) then place them on a baking tray and slide into a hot oven (gas mark 3/160˚C/fan 140˚C/325˚F) for 10-15 mins. Keep them warm until you pour in the jam. Always seal jams etc while hot.
Use as little water as possible and cover the fruit with a tightly fitting lid.

Skim scum frequently while the jam is boiling or add a small knob of butter to disperse it.

Telephone: 01865 391991 Email: info@denman.org.uk
Charity Registration no. 803793