Indulge in the sweet and tangy flavors of Iowa with this homemade Ground Cherry Honey Jam. The combination of ground cherries, honey, and a touch of spice creates a jam that's perfect for spreading on your morning toast or adding a twist to your favorite recipes.
Ingredients: 4 cups ground cherries, husked. 2 cups granulated sugar. 1/4 cup honey. 1/4 cup lemon juice. 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest. 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon. 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg. 1/4 teaspoon salt.
Instructions: Wash and husk the ground cherries, removing any stems or debris. In a large saucepan, combine the ground cherries, granulated sugar, honey, lemon juice, lemon zest, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved, and the cherries begin to release their juices. This should take about 10 minutes. Once the mixture is boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for approximately 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally and use a potato masher to break down the cherries as they cook. As the jam thickens and reaches the desired consistency, remove it from heat. You can check the consistency by placing a small amount of jam on a cold plate. If it sets and wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's ready. Pour the hot jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean and seal them with sterilized lids and bands. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are properly sealed. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool on a clean towel or cooling rack. As they cool, you should hear the satisfying 'pop' sound, indicating that they have sealed correctly. Label the jars with the date and type of jam, then store them in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Refrigerate after opening. Enjoy your homemade Ground Cherry Honey Jam on toast, crackers, or as a delightful topping for desserts.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
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