Step into the enchanting world of Scandinavian flavors with our delightful Aland Lingonberry Jam recipe. Bursting with the rich, vibrant essence of handpicked lingonberries from the Aland Islands, this homemade jam is a sweet symphony of tartness and sweetness. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, this easy-to-follow recipe promises to elevate your culinary skills while treating your taste buds to a taste of Nordic charm. Gather your ingredients, embrace the simplicity of the process, and soon you'll be savoring the essence of Aland in every spoonful. Let's embark on a culinary journey that captures the essence of the Aland Islands in a jar – a jar filled with the irresistible goodness of Aland Lingonberry Jam.

Ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh Aland lingonberries
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Instructions:

Prepare the Lingonberries:Rinse the fresh Aland lingonberries thoroughly under cold water. Remove any stems or leaves, and pat them dry with a clean kitchen towel.

Combine Ingredients:In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the cleaned lingonberries, granulated sugar, water, and fresh lemon juice. Stir well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.

Bring to a Simmer:Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir occasionally to prevent the sugar from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Cook Until Thickened:Once the mixture is simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the lingonberries have softened, and the mixture has thickened to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally during this process.

Check Jam Consistency:To test if the jam has reached the desired consistency, place a small amount on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam, and if it wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready.

Cool and Store:Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the lingonberry jam to cool for a few minutes. Skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface.

Jar the Jam:Transfer the lingonberry jam into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of space at the top. Seal the jars tightly.

Store or Refrigerate:Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, refrigerate the jam to preserve its freshness. The lingonberry jam can be stored for several weeks.

Serve and Enjoy:Spread this delicious Aland Lingonberry Jam on toast, use it as a condiment for meats, or add a dollop to your favorite desserts. Enjoy the taste of the Aland Islands in every bite!

This homemade Aland Lingonberry Jam is a versatile and flavorful addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing a touch of Scandinavian charm to your table.

Nutritional Values:

Nutritional values can vary based on factors like the specific brand or type of ingredients used. However, here's a general estimate for the nutritional content of the listed ingredients per serving:

Fresh Aland Lingonberries (4 cups):

• Calories: Approximately 120
• Carbohydrates: Around 32 grams
• Fiber: Roughly 16 grams
• Sugars: About 16 grams
• Vitamin C: Approximately 100% of the Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA)

benefits:

• Rich in Antioxidants: Lingonberries are packed with antioxidants, including vitamins C and E, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
• High in Fiber: The berries are a good source of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and helping maintain a feeling of fullness.

Granulated Sugar (2 cups):

• Calories: Approximately 1,000
• Carbohydrates: Around 256 grams
• Sugars: About 256 grams

benefits:

• Energy Source: Sugar provides a quick source of energy for the body, although it's important to consume it in moderation.
• Enhances Flavor: Sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps preserve the fruit and contributes to the overall texture.

Water (1/4 cup):

• No significant nutritional value, as water does not contribute to calories or macronutrients.

benefits:

• Hydration: Water is essential for various bodily functions, including digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation.
• Texture Control: Water helps control the consistency of the jam during the cooking process.

Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon):

• Calories: Approximately 4
• Carbohydrates: Around 1.3 grams
• Sugars: About 0.4 grams
• Vitamin C: Approximately 7% of the RDA

benefits:

• Vitamin C Boost: Lemon juice adds a burst of vitamin C, which supports the immune system and acts as an antioxidant.
• Balances Sweetness: The acidity of lemon juice balances the sweetness of the jam, enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Keep in mind that these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific brands and types of ingredients you use. Additionally, the serving size for jam is typically small, so the actual nutritional intake per serving may be lower than the values listed here. If you have specific dietary concerns or restrictions, it's advisable to consult with a nutritionist or use specific nutritional calculators based on the exact ingredients you choose.