Roasted Beet Jam
There’s something magical about turning simple, earthy beets into a rich, sweet, and slightly tangy jam. If you’ve never tried beet jam before, get ready to be amazed. This one is a game-changer! The natural sweetness of roasted beets deepens into a velvety, jewel-toned spread that’s both unexpected and irresistible. Trust me, you’re going to love this! Slather it on toast, swirl it into yogurt, or pair it with cheese—however you enjoy it, this jam is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love Roasted Beet Jam
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re cooking for a casual family breakfast, preparing a fancy brunch, or just indulging in some self-care with a gourmet snack, this jam is perfect for any occasion. Here’s why it’s a favorite:
Versatile
This jam isn’t just for spreading on toast. Use it as a glaze for roasted meats, mix it into salad dressings, or even stir it into cocktails for a unique twist. The possibilities are endless!
Budget-Friendly
Beets are affordable and widely available year-round. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a luxurious jam that tastes like something from a high-end gourmet store.
Quick and Easy
No need for fancy equipment or complicated steps. Roasting the beets brings out their natural sweetness, and from there, it’s just a quick blend and simmer to jam perfection.
Customizable
Want it sweeter? Add a bit more honey. Prefer a citrusy kick? Squeeze in some extra orange juice. You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste.
Crowd-Pleasing
A guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. It’s always a win when a single dish can satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe strikes the perfect balance of flavor and comfort, making it a universal favorite.
Ingredients
Ingredients in Roasted Beet Jam
Here’s the beauty of this jam—it’s made with simple ingredients, but the result is anything but ordinary. Let’s break it down:
Beets: The star of the show! Roasting intensifies their natural sweetness and gives the jam its stunning deep red color.
Honey: Adds a touch of natural sweetness while enhancing the beets’ earthy flavor.
Orange Juice & Zest: A burst of citrusy brightness that balances the richness of the beets.
Balsamic Vinegar: A little tangy depth to round out the flavors and add a gourmet touch.
Ginger: A subtle warmth that brings everything together beautifully.
Instructions
Roast the Beets
Preheat your oven to 400°F. Wrap the beets in foil and place them on a baking sheet. Roast for about 45 minutes, or until they’re fork-tender. Once cooled, peel and chop them into small pieces.
Blend the Ingredients
In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted beets, honey, orange juice, zest, balsamic vinegar, and ginger. Blend until smooth and creamy.
Simmer to Perfection
Pour the blended mixture into a saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Stir frequently and cook for about 10 minutes until thickened to a jam-like consistency.
Cool and Store
Remove from heat and let it cool completely. Transfer the jam into a clean jar and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks.
Serve and Enjoy
Spread it on warm toast, dollop it over ricotta, or get creative with your favorite pairings. However you enjoy it, this jam is sure to impress!
Nutrition facts
Servings: 8 Calories per serving: 45
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 55 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
How to Serve Roasted Beet Jam
This jam pairs wonderfully with various sides and accompaniments. Here are a few serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience:
- Spread on warm sourdough toast with a smear of goat cheese
- Swirled into Greek yogurt with a drizzle of honey
- Served as a topping for grilled meats or roasted veggies
- Used as a unique filling for pastries or thumbprint cookies
- Mixed into vinaigrettes for a bold salad dressing
Additional Tips
Here are some extra tips to help you get the most out of this recipe:
- Roast the beets ahead of time to speed up the process when you’re ready to make the jam.
- Use gloves when handling beets to avoid staining your hands.
- Adjust the sweetness by adding more honey if you prefer a sweeter jam.
- For a chunkier texture, blend less and keep some beet bits intact.
- Store in an airtight container to keep it fresh longer.
FAQ
Can I use canned beets instead of fresh ones?
Yes, but roasting fresh beets gives a richer flavor. If using canned, drain well before blending.
How long does this jam last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for up to two weeks when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze beet jam?
Absolutely! Store it in a freezer-safe container and thaw in the fridge when ready to use.
What can I substitute for honey?
Maple syrup or agave nectar work well as alternatives.
Is this jam suitable for diabetics?
It’s naturally sweetened, but check with a doctor before consuming if you have dietary restrictions.
Can I make this without balsamic vinegar?
Yes! You can use apple cider vinegar or lemon juice instead.
What if my jam is too thick?
Add a splash of orange juice or water and stir until you reach the desired consistency.
Can I add spices?
Absolutely! Cinnamon, nutmeg, or cardamom can add extra warmth.
Does this taste like traditional jam?
Not exactly—it has a unique earthy-sweet balance with a gourmet twist.
Can I use this as a glaze for meats?
Yes! It’s fantastic as a glaze for roasted chicken, pork, or even salmon.
Conclusion
Roasted Beet Jam is the perfect way to bring out the natural sweetness of beets in a way that feels indulgent yet wholesome. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, pairing it with cheese, or using it in creative ways, this jam is bound to be a new favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try and discover just how versatile and delicious it can be!
Print
Roasted Beet Jam
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 2 cups 1x
- Category: Condiments & Spreads
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Roasted Beet Jam is a delightful spread that combines the earthy sweetness of beets with citrus and warm spices. This jam pairs wonderfully with buttered toast, cream cheese on toasted pita, or as an accompaniment to cheese platters.
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 pounds fresh beets (about 10 small)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil
- 1 medium lemon
- 1 cinnamon stick (3 inches)
- 8 whole cloves
- 1 cup packed brown sugar
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/3 cup maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped crystallized ginger
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions
-
Roast the Beets:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Peel the beets and cut them into wedges.
- Place the beet wedges on a 15x10x1-inch baking pan, drizzle with canola oil, and toss to coat.
- Roast for 50-60 minutes or until tender. Allow them to cool slightly.
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Prepare the Lemon and Spices:
- Cut a thin slice from the top and bottom of the lemon; stand it upright on a cutting board.
- With a knife, remove the peel and outer membrane from the lemon.
- Cut the lemon in half. Thinly slice one half and remove any seeds (reserve the other half for another use).
- Place the cinnamon stick and cloves on a double layer of cheesecloth. Gather the corners to enclose the spices and tie securely with kitchen string to create a spice bag.
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Make the Jam:
- In a food processor, pulse the roasted beets until finely chopped.
- Transfer the chopped beets to a large saucepan.
- Add the brown sugar, granulated sugar, maple syrup, crystallized ginger, salt, sliced lemon, and the prepared spice bag.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat.
- Reduce the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 to 1¼ hours, stirring occasionally, until the mixture thickens to a jam-like consistency.
- Remove from heat and discard the spice bag.
-
Store the Jam:
- Allow the jam to cool slightly.
- Ladle the jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace.
- Wipe the rims clean, apply the lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes if canning.
- Alternatively, let the jars cool completely, then refrigerate for up to 1 week or freeze for up to 12 months.
Notes
- Yield: Approximately 2 half-pint jars.
- Serving Suggestions: This jam is excellent on buttered toast, paired with cream cheese on toasted pita, or as a condiment on a cheese board.
- Storage: Refrigerate opened jars and consume within a week.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tbsp
- Calories: 45 kcal
- Sugar: 9 g
- Sodium: 2 mg
- Fat: 0.1 g
- Saturated Fat: 0 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0.1 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 11 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 0.3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
