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Easy Huckleberry Jam with Lemon Zest

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A quick and easy small-batch refrigerator-style huckleberry jam with bright lemon zest, perfect for fresh, vibrant flavor without the fuss of traditional canning.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups (300 grams) fresh huckleberries, ripe and firm, washed and drained
  • 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar, adjust to taste
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon, finely grated (avoid white pith)
  • 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice
  • Optional: 1 tablespoon chia seeds for natural thickening

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 cups (300 grams) of fresh huckleberries gently in a colander. Drain well and remove any stems or leaves (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine huckleberries, 3/4 cup (150 grams) granulated sugar, lemon zest, and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) fresh lemon juice. Add 1 tablespoon chia seeds if using. Stir until sugar is evenly distributed (about 3 minutes).
  3. Place saucepan over medium heat. Bring mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and burning. Cook for 10-12 minutes until berries soften and mixture thickens slightly. If jam is too runny, simmer longer or add more chia seeds off heat and stir well.
  4. Test consistency by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate; after a minute, run your finger through it. It should wrinkle and not flood back together.
  5. Remove from heat and let cool for 10-15 minutes. Transfer to a clean glass jar or airtight container. Seal and refrigerate. Jam will thicken as it cools, especially if chia seeds were added.

Notes

Use ripe but firm berries for best texture. Organic lemons recommended for zest. If using frozen berries, thaw and drain excess liquid. Chia seeds help thicken without longer cooking. Jam is refrigerator-style and best consumed within 2 weeks. Avoid boiling after cooking to preserve flavor and texture. Stir often during cooking to prevent scorching.

Nutrition

Keywords: huckleberry jam, lemon zest, small batch jam, refrigerator jam, easy jam recipe, no pectin jam, vegan jam, gluten-free jam

Find it online: https://sparklespoon.com/easy-huckleberry-jam-with-lemon-zest-recipe-perfect-for-small-batches/