Num num ... jam, butter and cream crackers.
So maybe that's a bit dramatic, but it got your attention, right? I like to believe that statement has some truth to it. I had been dying to learn how to make jam and finally attended a Jam 101 course the other night. Friends, let me be the first to tell you: jam making is a cinch! Why were people holding out on me for so dang long?
Here's how making jam will help you save the world:
• Producing less waste (you can reuse all the jars for even more jam next season)
• You're preserving summer (or spring, winter, fall) in a jar, meaning you can rely on local flavours all through the year rather than buy goods that have been imported from a far off land
• Cutting down on consumerism (that's one less jar of jam you'll have to buy from the store)
• When you make jam you will feel empowered knowing that your one step closer to self sustaining. This will elevate your mood and you'll be ready to head out and fight the bad guys. Trust me.
Oh, and also, making jam is cheap ... unless you buy 2L of wild blueberries to make it with, like I did (but tasting wild Ontario blueberries in the middle of February will be worth it, right?).
All you need is:
• Jars with seals (look for BPA-free lids)
• A big pot
• Ladle
• Wide-mouth funnel
• Tongs
• Clean dish cloths
If you're interested in making some jam to preserve summer's sweetness, there are two great sources you can consult here and here to brush up on your jam-making skills.
Do you make jam? What's your favourite kind? I'm really liking peach jam lately.
