Blueberry-Lavender Jam

Blueberry-Lavender Jam

2 Tbsp. dried, organic lavender flowers
12 ounces frozen white grape juice concentrate
3 cups fresh (or flash frozen) blueberries, washed and drained

Make a lavender sachet by cutting a piece of cheesecloth into a 6" square. Place the lavender in the center and tie into a bundle with kitchen twine or twist.

Place the lavender sachet, grape juice concentrate, and blueberries to a boil in a heavy saucepan. Stir constantly to prevent sticking. The berry mixture will 'jell' after about 20 minutes. You can test if the mixture has jelled by placing a teaspoonful of it on a place and allowing to cool at room temperature. After cooling, lightly touch the berry mixture with your finger to see if it has the consistency of jelly. If necessary, cook for 10 more minutes. When done, cover and steep for 2 hours. Then, remove the lavender sachet and discard.

Divide the jam between two pint jars. Cover and store in a refrigerator for up to one month.

*The mountain in the background is Mt. Adams*Can you see it?

Favorite Jam Tea

Sometimes it is fun to vary from the usual routine and try something new. Although I usually take my tea without any sweetener except for sweet leaf stevia, sometimes it is fun to add something else instead. Flavored honey sticks  are delicious added to tea, but they tend not to stick around very long, as they are found by those who live here and are enjoyed just the way they are. But, on most days a jar of jam can be found inside the fridge door. Jam makes a great addition to any cup of tea! It makes a cup of tea so delicious that the amber liquid will slide down your throat with ease! Kids love it too and it makes a fun addition to a children's tea party. Just remember to invite the teddy bears and dolls in the house. 

The recipe is simple and I'll share it here with you:

Jam Tea

1 cup of hot plain brewed tea (I like Darjeeling for this)

1 teaspoon of your favorite jam (try apricot, or grape, or strawberry, or even raspberry jam)

Stir together the hot tea and jam. The jam will melt into the amber liquid and you'll have a sweet treat to enjoy!