Gooseberry jam with honey

Here's a recipe for Gooseberry Jam with Honey:

Ingredients:

• 4 cups gooseberries (stemmed and topped)
• 1 1/2 to 2 cups honey (depending on your desired sweetness)
• 1/4 cup water
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional, for added depth of flavor)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Gooseberries:

   • Wash the gooseberries, then remove the stems and tops. You can use a small pair of scissors or your fingers for this task.
   • If the gooseberries are large, you can cut them in half, but this is optional.

2. Cook the Gooseberries:

   • In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the gooseberries, water, and lemon juice.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
   • Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the gooseberries simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until they begin to break down and soften.

3. Add the Honey:

   • Stir in the honey, ensuring it’s well incorporated into the fruit mixture.
   • Continue to cook the mixture on medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, for another 30-40 minutes. The jam should begin to thicken as it cooks.

4. Blend the Jam (Optional):

   • If you prefer a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to carefully blend the mixture to your desired consistency. For a chunkier texture, you can leave some of the gooseberries whole.

5. Add Vanilla (Optional):

   • If you’re using vanilla extract, stir it in during the last few minutes of cooking. The vanilla will add a subtle, rich flavor that complements the honey and gooseberries.

6. Check for Doneness:

   • To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s done. If not, cook for a few more minutes and test again.

7. Jar the Jam:

   • Remove the pot from the heat and carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace.
   • Wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth, place the lids on top, and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.

8. Process the Jars:

   • Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal and longer shelf life.
   • Remove the jars and let them cool completely on a towel-lined surface. You should hear the lids pop as they seal.

9. Store:

   • Once cooled, check the seals. Any unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
   • Properly sealed jars can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Enjoy!

Gooseberry jam with honey is a deliciously tart and sweet spread that pairs wonderfully with toast, scones, or as a filling for pastries. The honey adds a natural sweetness that complements the bright flavor of the gooseberries, creating a jam that’s both unique and versatile.