Winter Berry Jam

This gift of sunshine will transport anyone to lazy summer days with each bite.

2 pkg mixed berries, frozen, thawed but not drained (600 g)
2 tsp. lemon peel, freshly grated (10 mL)
1 Tbsp. lemon juice, freshly squeezed (15 mL)
1 pkg light fruit pectin crystals (49 g)
4½ cups sugar (1.125 L)
2 Tbsp. berry flavoured Vodka (optional) (25 mL)

In large heavy saucepan, crush berries, 1 pkg at a time, to make about 5 cups (1.25 L). Stir in lemon rind and juice.

In bowl, stir pectin with ¼ cup (50 mL) of the sugar, stir into berry mixture and bring to full rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Stir in remaining sugar. Return to full rolling boil, boil hard, stirring constantly, for 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in vodka (if using).

Stir for 5 minutes, skimming off any foam. Ladle into 1 cup (250 mL) hot canning jars, leaving ¼” (5 mm) headspace. Cover with prepared lids, screw on bands fingertip tight.

Boil in boiling water canner for 10 minutes. Let jars stand on rack until cool. Check that lids curve downward. Refrigerate any that do not and use within 3 weeks. Store in cool dark place for up to 1 year.

Makes 7 cups (1.75 L).