Essential berries for authentic Scandinavian jam
Scandinavian cuisine is all about simplicity and coziness, but there's one thing they take very seriously: jam! Making real-deal Scandinavian jam isn't just about any old berry, though. You need the right ones - the kind that grow in the cold Nordic countries. This article lists the essential berries you need if you want to make truly Scandinavian jams at home.
Lingonberries: The heart of Nordic jams
Lingonberries are tiny, vibrant red, and absolutely essential to Scandinavian cuisine. Their sourness beautifully counteracts jam sweetness, and their high content of vitamins and antioxidants means lingonberry jam is delicious and good for you. To achieve that genuine taste, make sure lingonberries make up at least 60% of the berries in your jam.
Cloudberries: A rare delight
Cloudberries are elusive, amber-hued jewels thriving in the untamed marshlands of Scandinavia. They possess a singular sweetness, tempered by a tart edge, rendering them objects of desire for flavor-seekers. Given their elusive nature, cloudberry jam is a delicacy. If you can get your hands on them, just adding even 10% of cloudberries will add a burst of flavor to your Scandinavian jam.
Bilberries: The European blueberry
Bilberries, tiny and bursting with a flavor more intense than blueberries, are the heart and soul of the forested areas of Scandinavia. Their deep blue color, almost like a midnight sky, is full of antioxidants. They make your jam look pretty and taste intense. For that real Scandinavian taste, go for a jam with at least 20% bilberry content. That's the sweet spot for a traditional, full-flavored blend.
Sea buckthorn: A tangy addition
Sea buckthorn berries are bright orange and super tangy, making them the secret ingredient your Scandinavian jam has been missing! These berries grow in coastal areas and are full of vitamins C and E, and other good stuff. You don't want to use too many because they're pretty intense, but around 5% sea buckthorn will make your jam taste amazing and a bit fancy.
Tips for perfect jam making
When preparing Scandinavian berry jams, opt for fresh or frozen berries instead of canned ones, as they preserve more flavor. Strike a balance between sweetness and acidity by regulating sugar content based on the tartness of your selected berries; for instance, lingonberry jams necessitate less sugar than sweeter bilberry or cloudberry versions.
