Delicious Rhubarb Freezer Jam to Make at Home

Do you love a sweet and tangy spread? Rhubarb freezer jam is perfect for you. It’s quick to make and great for all cooks.

This jam is easy to make with just three ingredients. It’s a vibrant, sweet-tart preserve that’s perfect for summer. It’s great for both experienced bakers and beginners.

Rhubarb gives this jam a unique taste. It’s tart but sweet, making it perfect for toast, pastries, or as a meat glaze. Learn how to make this tasty jam at home!

Ingredients for Rhubarb Freezer Jam

Making tasty rhubarb freezer jam begins with the right ingredients. Fresh, vibrant rhubarb is the main ingredient. It adds a unique tartness that makes it different from regular fruit preserves.

Here’s what you need for a great batch of rhubarb freezer jam:

• Fresh rhubarb stalks (4-5 cups, chopped)
• Sugar for jam (2-3 cups, depending on desired sweetness)
• Strawberry jello (1 package, which acts as a natural pectin)
• Fresh orange juice (1/4 cup)

Strawberry jello is key in this recipe. It gives the jam setting power and adds fruity flavor. Sugar balances the rhubarb’s tartness, making the jam sweet and tangy.

Want to add something extra to your jam? Try these:

• Orange zest for a bright citrus undertone
• Vanilla bean for depth and complexity
• A pinch of cinnamon for warmth

Pro tip: Pick firm, bright red rhubarb stalks for the best flavor. Avoid woody or green stalks. They can change the taste and texture of your homemade jam.

How to Make Rhubarb Freezer Jam

Making a tasty rhubarb jam at home is simple. This method uses no pectin, keeping the fresh taste of rhubarb. Follow these steps to make your own freezer jam.

1. Clean and Prepare Rhubarb
   • Wash rhubarb stalks well
   • Remove leaf ends and tough parts
   • Chop rhubarb into small pieces
2. Mix Ingredients
   • Put chopped rhubarb and sugar together
   • Let it sit in the fridge overnight
   • This lets the natural juices come out
3. Cooking Process
   • Add strawberry jello to the mixture
   • Cook on medium heat until it thickens a bit
   • Keep stirring to avoid burning

The freezer jam method is great for those who prefer easy jam making. It keeps more of the rhubarb’s taste and nutrients than traditional canning.

Step	Time Required	Key Action
Preparation	15 minutes	Chop and mix rhubarb
Refrigeration	8-12 hours	Let sugar draw out moisture
Cooking	10-15 minutes	Simmer with jello
Cooling	30-45 minutes	Allow jam to set

Once cooled, put the jam in freezer-safe containers. Your homemade freezer jam will last for months!

Tips for Making Rhubarb Freezer Jam

Making the perfect rhubarb freezer jam needs some key tips. Choosing the right rhubarb is essential for a vibrant, flavorful spread. It will impress your family and friends.

When making your jam, pick the best rhubarb. Look for stalks that are firm, crisp, and bright red. Younger, tender stalks make the most flavorful and smooth jam.

• Select rhubarb with bright, glossy stalks
• Avoid woody or stringy stems
• Choose stalks that are firm to the touch
• Opt for smaller, younger rhubarb for maximum tenderness

Temperature control is key in making freezer jam. A food thermometer is your best friend. It helps you get the perfect consistency. Aim for a precise temperature to ensure your jam sets right.

Rhubarb Quality	Best for Jam	Avoid
Color	Deep crimson-red	Pale or greenish stalks
Texture	Firm and crisp	Soft or mushy stems
Size	Younger, smaller stalks	Large, woody stems

Don’t forget to wash and trim your rhubarb before starting. Remove any leaves, as they are toxic. Cut the stalks into uniform pieces for even cooking. With these tips, you’ll make a delightful homemade freezer jam that captures the essence of fresh, seasonal rhubarb.

Make-Ahead Instructions

Start making your make-ahead rhubarb jam by preparing the rhubarb smartly. Freezing rhubarb is a great way to keep your jam-making going all year. It makes sure you always have this tasty ingredient ready.

To get started, follow these important steps:

• Wash rhubarb stalks well under cool water
• Pat dry with clean kitchen towels
• Trim off leaf ends and any damaged parts
• Cut rhubarb into uniform 1-inch pieces

For freezing rhubarb for future jam, use these methods:

1. Spread cut rhubarb pieces on a baking sheet
2. Freeze pieces for 2 hours until solid
3. Transfer frozen rhubarb to freezer-safe bags
4. Remove excess air from bags
5. Label with date and contents

Frozen rhubarb can last up to 12 months. This lets you make delicious make-ahead rhubarb jam whenever you want. Freezing keeps the fruit’s natural pectin and color, making your jam taste fresh and yummy.

Storing Leftovers

Storing rhubarb jam right is key to keeping its taste and ensuring safety. Your homemade freezer jam needs special care to last longer and stay good.

Refrigerating your jam is a common way to store it short-term. In an airtight container, it can stay fresh for up to two weeks in the fridge. Always use clean tools to scoop out jam to avoid germs.

Freezer jam lasts much longer when frozen. You can keep it frozen for up to six months without losing its taste or texture. For the best results, use containers made for the freezer with tight lids to avoid freezer burn.

Don’t store your rhubarb freezer jam at room temperature. It can spoil and pose health risks. Always keep it in the fridge or freezer to keep it fresh and prevent germs.

Freezing Rhubarb Freezer Jam

Keeping your rhubarb freezer jam fresh is key. You need to pick the right containers for long-term storage. This ensures your homemade jam stays delicious.

For freezing jam, choose containers that can handle cold. The top picks are:

• Plastic containers with tight-fitting lids
• Wide-mouth glass jars made for freezing
• Freezer-safe plastic or glass containers

It’s important to leave enough space in your containers. This prevents them from cracking or breaking when frozen. Aim for about 1/2 inch of space at the top for expansion.

Don’t forget to label your containers well. Write the date and what’s inside. This makes it easy to keep track of how long it’s been stored.

Rhubarb freezer jam can last up to 12 months in the freezer. It stays tasty and smooth. Always use containers that seal well to avoid freezer burn.

• Store at 0°F (-18°C) or lower
• Keep containers away from freezer door for even temperature
• Avoid thawing and freezing it again

To enjoy your jam, just move it from the freezer to the fridge. Let it thaw slowly for the best flavor and texture.

Reheating Rhubarb Freezer Jam

Reheating jam needs careful attention to keep its flavor and texture great. The fridge is best for thawing frozen jam. Just put it in the fridge overnight to slowly get back to its original state.

Serving rhubarb jam at the right temperature makes a big difference. Here are some ways to reheat it:

• Countertop method: Let the jam sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes before serving
• Gentle microwave warming: Heat in 10-second intervals, stirring between each interval
• Water bath technique: Place the sealed jar in warm (not boiling) water for gradual heating

When reheating jam, slow and gentle warming is key. Avoid direct high heat to keep the flavors vibrant. A few simple steps will make your jam taste as good as when you first made it.

Pro tip: Always use clean utensils when handling jam. This keeps it fresh and prevents contamination. Your homemade rhubarb freezer jam deserves the best care from freezer to table.

Serving Suggestions

Your homemade rhubarb freezer jam is super versatile. It’s great for everything from breakfast to desserts. Spread it on toast, mix it into yogurt, or use it as a pie filling for a burst of flavor.

Try new things with rhubarb jam. Drizzle it over ice cream for a cool dessert, or make a glaze for pork. It’s also good on grilled chicken and charcuterie boards.

Get creative with jam pairings. Add it to oatmeal, smoothies, or pastries. Bakers can mix it into muffins or make thumbprint cookies with its bright color and tangy taste.

There are endless ways to use this jam. Top cheesecake, mix into cocktails, or make popsicles in summer. Your imagination is the only limit.

FAQ

What makes rhubarb freezer jam different from traditional jam?

Rhubarb freezer jam is special because it doesn’t need traditional canning. It’s fast to make and keeps the fresh taste of rhubarb. Plus, it can be stored in the freezer, making it easy and handy.

How long can I store rhubarb freezer jam in the freezer?

You can keep rhubarb freezer jam in the freezer for up to 6 months if it’s in airtight containers. For the best taste, use it within 3-4 months. Always write the date you made it on the container.

Can I use frozen rhubarb to make this jam?

Yes, you can! Frozen rhubarb is perfect for freezer jam. Just thaw it and drain any extra liquid before using. This way, you can enjoy rhubarb jam all year round.

Is it necessary to use pectin or strawberry jello in the recipe?

Pectin or strawberry jello helps the jam set right. They make sure the jam has a good texture and taste. You can try other thickeners, but these are best for the jam’s consistency and flavor.

How can I tell if my rhubarb is fresh and good for jam-making?

Choose rhubarb that’s firm, crisp, and brightly colored red or pink. Avoid soft, wilted, or brown spots. Fresh rhubarb makes your jam taste better.

Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?

Sugar is key for flavor and keeping the jam fresh. You can cut down on sugar a bit, but too much can mess with the jam’s texture and shelf life. Using low-sugar pectin can help if you want less sugar.

What are some creative ways to use rhubarb freezer jam?

Rhubarb freezer jam is great on toast, but you can also use it on yogurt, in pastries, as a meat glaze, or in drinks. Its sweet-tart taste goes well with many foods, both sweet and savory.

How do I thaw frozen rhubarb freezer jam?

Move the jam from the freezer to the fridge to thaw slowly overnight. Once thawed, eat it within 1-2 weeks and keep it in the fridge. Don’t thaw it at room temperature to avoid bacterial growth.

Can I add other fruits to my rhubarb freezer jam?

Yes! You can mix rhubarb with strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, or ginger for new flavors. Just keep the same amount of fruit as the recipe calls for.

What type of containers are best for storing freezer jam?

Use containers that are safe for the freezer, like glass jars or plastic ones with tight lids. Mason jars are good, but leave about 1/2 inch of space for expansion. Always choose containers made for freezer storage.