Look what I found growing wild in the field beside our apartment…
At first I mistook them for black raspberries, but upon further research, I determined they’re in fact blackberries. I’ve never had blackberries before! I’m so excited and I’ve been planning all the things I can do with them…
I was able to pick just over a cup of berries yesterday. The bushes are absolutely loaded with berries, but most of them aren’t ripe quite yet.
I went out last night and bought the supplies I needed to make blackberry freezer-jam. My mother has made strawberry and black raspberry freezer jam, and I’m thinking that blackberry should be every bit as good. I’m also considering attempting mixed-berry jam with blackberries, strawberries, and raspberries.
Here is the recipe I’m planning to use.
Blackberry Freezer Jam
3 c. blackberries, crushed
5 1/4 c. sugar
1 box Sure-Jell fruit pectin
Measure berries into large bowl; thoroughly stir in sugar and let stand 10 minutes. Mix 3/4 cup water and Sure-Jell in small saucepan. Bring to a full boil and boil 1 minute, stirring constantly. At once, stir into fruit and continue stirring 3 minutes. Immediately put into prepared containers (freezer jars or cartons that have been scalded), leaving 1/2 inch space at top.
With a damp cloth, wipe any spills from containers. Cover at once with lids. Let stand at room temperature for 24 hours. Store jam in freezer until ready for use.
I’m also looking for other recipes to try with my blackberries — pies, muffins, etc. So please feel free to share!
