Concord Grape Jam
New England is known for its beautiful fall foliage, chilly winters, and delicious homemade jams. A favorite amongst the locals is Concord grape jam - a sweet and tangy spread that’s perfect for adding a burst of flavor to your morning toast or to jazz up any baked goods. The Concord grape is a hybrid grape developed in the 19th century by Ephraim Wales Bull, a horticulturist from Concord, Massachusetts. The grape is dark purple and has a thick skin, with a unique flavor that’s both sweet and tangy.
The Concord grape jam recipe has been passed down from generation to generation in many New England households, and each family has its own unique twist on the classic recipe. Some add a splash of lemon juice for a bit of added acidity, while others prefer to use honey instead of sugar for a slightly different flavor profile. Whatever your variation of this classic recipe is, one thing is for sure - the result is always delicious.
To make Concord grape jam, you’ll need fresh grapes, sugar or honey, fresh lemon juice (optional), and pectin. Pectin is a natural thickening agent that’s found in fruit and is often added to jams and jellies to help them set. You can find pectin at your local grocery store or online.
Start by washing and removing the stems from your grapes. Then, add the grapes to a heavy-bottomed pot and cook them over medium heat until they start to soften and burst open. Once the grapes have burst, you can use a potato masher or a fork to break the grapes down further and release as much juice as possible.
Next, add your sugar or honey to the pot and stir until it’s fully dissolved. If you’re using lemon juice, add it now. Then, sprinkle in the pectin and continue stirring. You’ll want to boil the mixture for about 10 minutes, or until it starts to thicken and coats the back of a spoon.
Once the jam has thickened, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, spoon it into sterilized jars and let them cool completely before storing them in the fridge. The jam will thicken even more as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems a bit runny at first.
Concord grape jam is a delightful spread that’s perfect for breakfast, snacks, or to give as a homemade gift to friends and family. It pairs perfectly with a crisp baguette or homemade scones, and it’s also delicious as a filling for cakes and pastries. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any excess grapes you may have from your garden or the farmer’s market.
In conclusion, Concord grape jam is a cherished recipe in New England households that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste, making it a perfect addition to any kitchen. So next time you’re looking for a sweet and tangy spread, try making your own Concord grape jam - you won’t be disappointed!
Ingredients:
- 4 cups Concord grapes
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
- Rinse the Concord grapes and remove the stems.
- Add the grapes to a large pot and crush them with a potato masher.
- Turn the heat to medium-high and stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and butter.
- Cook the mixture for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens.
- To check if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and let it cool. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it’s ready.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Pour the jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
- Screw on the lids and let the jars cool to room temperature.
- Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.
Enjoy your homemade New England Concord Grape Jam as a spread on toast, stirred into yogurt or oatmeal, or as a topping for ice cream.