Contents
A traditional Romanian summer preserve made from wild blackberries. This quick and easy jam recipe keeps the berries whole in a light syrup, known locally as “dulceață.” Perfect on toast, in desserts, or even cocktails, this recipe brings authentic Eastern European flavors right to your kitchen. 🍇🇷🇴
Ingredients
- 1 kg wild blackberries (fresh or organic)
- 700 g white sugar (or to taste)
- Juice of 1 medium lemon
- (Optional) 1 tsp vanilla essence
Instructions
- Soak the berries in a bowl of water with 1 tbsp vinegar for 30–60 minutes. Rinse and pat dry.
- Place berries in a bowl, add half the sugar, and let sit for 2 hours.
- Wash jars and lids. Place in a cold oven on a metal tray, heat to 150°C for 15 minutes, then cool.
- In a pot, combine berries and remaining sugar. Heat gently until sugar dissolves. Add lemon juice. Bring to a rolling boil and cook for 5 minutes.
- Drop some jam on a cold plate. Wait 2 minutes. If it wrinkles or moves slowly when tilted, it's ready.
- Pour into sterilized jars, seal, turn upside down, and cool completely.
Notes
Nothing captures the essence of a Romanian summer like a jar of homemade wild blackberry jam – known locally as Dulceață de Mure. This delightful preserve is a cherished tradition in Romanian households, passed down from one generation to the next. With its glossy whole berries, subtly tangy flavor, and sweet syrupy finish, it's a celebration of nature's bounty and the simple pleasures of homemade cooking.🌿 A Taste of the Forest
During late summer, the Romanian countryside and forest edges burst with ripe wild blackberries. Inspired by this seasonal treasure, many Romanians venture out with baskets in hand, foraging for these deep purple gems. This jam recipe begins with freshly picked wild blackberries – carefully hand-washed and preserved to highlight their intense flavor. Unlike typical marmalades or spreads, dulceață is a unique Romanian version of jam where the fruits remain whole in a silky, slightly runny syrup. It’s not just food—it’s tradition.🫐 Why You’ll Love This Romanian Blackberry Jam
✅ Quick to make – Boils in just 5 minutes! ✅ Whole fruit delight – Not blended or mashed. ✅ Perfectly balanced – Sweet, but not overwhelmingly sugary. ✅ Versatile – Enjoy it on toast, in desserts, or even in cocktails!🧠 Notes & Tips
- 🍬 Sugar Ratio: Traditional recipes use a 1:1 fruit-to-sugar ratio. This version uses slightly less sugar for a more natural, slightly tangy taste.
- 🧼 Sterilization is key! Don’t skip this step or your jam could spoil quickly.
- ❄️ Storage: Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Refrigerate after opening.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
How long does homemade blackberry jam last?
Properly sterilized and sealed jars can last for up to 2 years. Once opened, store in the fridge and consume within 2–3 weeks.What can I use Romanian blackberry jam for?
This jam is incredibly versatile:- On toast with butter 🥖
- As a pancake or papanasi topping 🥞
- Mixed into yogurt or oatmeal 🥣
- In cakes, tarts, and pastries 🍰
- As a glaze for meats or BBQ marinades 🍖
- In cocktails or mocktails 🍸
- On cheese boards 🧀
Ooh, this sounds amazing! I love the idea of whole berries in the jam – so much prettier than a pureed version. Do you think it would work as well with other berries, like raspberries or blueberries? I’m definitely trying this recipe out!