Mary Berry Damson Jam Recipe

Name: Mary Berry's Apple and Blackberry Cake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Yield: 8 servings
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 225g self-raising flour; 1 tsp baking powder; 175g caster sugar; 2 large eggs; 1/2 tsp almond extract; 150g butter, melted; 250g cooking apples, peeled and sliced; 150g blackberries; 25g flaked almonds

Dive into the world of traditional British preserves with this delightful Mary Berry-inspired Damson Jam recipe, perfect for spreading on your morning toast or adding a tangy twist to your afternoon tea scones. Damson plums, with their rich, tart flavor, make an excellent base for a jam that's both comforting and full of depth.

Cultural or Historical Context Damson jam holds a cherished place in British culinary tradition, often made in late summer and early autumn when damson plums are in season. This preserve captures the essence of British orchards and has been a staple in pantries for generations.

Ingredients for the Damson Jam Recipe

Damsons: 1 kg, providing a tart base for the jam.
Caster Sugar: 1 kg, to sweeten and help set the jam.
Water: 300 ml, to help cook the damsons and dissolve the sugar.

Preparation Instructions

Start by boiling the damsons in water until soft before removing the stones.
Continue to boil the mixture until it's reduced by half, then stir in the sugar until dissolved.
Bring the mixture to a rapid boil until it reaches setting point, then pour into sterilized jars and seal.

Storage and Reheating Properly sealed, damson jam can last for up to 2 years in a cool, dry place. Once opened, keep it in the fridge for up to 3 months to preserve its freshness.

Nutritional Information Each serving (assuming 35g per serving) contains approximately 69 calories, with 17.4g of carbohydrates (all of which are sugars), 0.1g of protein, and a trace amount of salt.

FAQ about the Damson Jam Recipe

Do damsons need added pectin for jam? No, damsons are naturally high in pectin, especially if you include the stones during the initial cooking phase.
Can I freeze damsons for later use in jam? Absolutely! Freezing damsons is a great way to preserve them for making jam at a later date.
How do I know when the jam is ready? A classic test is to chill a plate in the freezer, then drop a little jam onto it. If the jam wrinkles when pushed, it's set.

End your jam-making session by preparing some freshly baked scones, creating the perfect pairing for your damson jam. This recipe not only brings a slice of British countryside into your kitchen but also continues the tradition of preserving the bountiful harvest for the months to come.

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