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Gooseberry and Elderflower Jam
A fragrant, perfumed jam that combines the sharp tang of gooseberries with the floral delicacy of elderflower cordial — a partnership so natural it seems like these two were born to be together. Gooseberries are naturally high in pectin and set beautifully without commercial pectin added. The result is a pale green-gold jam with a complex, flowery aroma and a lively, bright flavor.
Gooseberry is in season now. More gooseberry recipes, or see what to sow this month where you are.
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh gooseberries, topped and tailed
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- ¼ cup water
- 3 tbsp elderflower cordialSt-Germain elderflower liqueur works for adults
- 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Method
- Combine gooseberries and water in a wide, heavy saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat, crushing the berries with a wooden spoon as they soften, about 5-7 minutes, until they've broken down completely.About 8 min
- Add sugar and lemon juice. Stir over medium heat until the sugar fully dissolves. Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a rolling boil.About 5 min
- Boil hard, stirring frequently, for 15-20 minutes until the jam reaches the setting point. Test by placing a drop on a frozen plate — it should wrinkle when pushed.About 20 min
- Remove from heat. Stir in elderflower cordial. Let sit for 2 minutes, then skim any foam. Ladle into sterilized jars. Process in a water bath for 10 minutes, or refrigerate immediately.About 10 min
Tips
- Add elderflower off the heat to preserve its delicate floral aroma — boiling it destroys the flavor.
- Gooseberries are naturally high in pectin, especially when slightly underripe — expect a reliable, firm set.
- The jam transforms to a lovely amber-gold color after cooking despite the green fruit.
Ring the changes
- Add the zest of one lemon along with the juice for a more citrusy, aromatic jam.
- Include 2 sprigs of fresh mint during cooking (removed before jarring) for a minty-floral version.
Keeping it
Refrigerate unsealed jars for up to 1 month. Water-bath processed jars keep at room temperature for 1 year.
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More from the same crop
Gooseberries are one of the few fruits that become more themselves when cooked — their sharp, wine-like flavor deepens under heat and plays perfectly against a buttery oat crumble. Custard or vanilla ice cream is the only acceptable accompaniment.
50 min · easy · Gooseberry
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