I just recently planted two blueberry bushes in the backyard.  Imagine my excitement of having fresh, juicy blueberries at my beck and call.  Thoughts of all the different ways I could use my bounty started racing through my brain.  Blueberry muffins, blueberry bread, blueberry pie, blueberry smoothies, YES..my own blueberry preserves.  I’m in heaven!!  Alas,  my grandiose plans were shattered when I harvested a mere five blueberries between both bushes.  I suppose my blueberry bushes need some time to mature.  Patience is a virtue I’m told.

Well this little bump in my blueberry gardening  was not going to stop me.  I really wanted to make some organic blueberry preserves that did not require canning, pectin or processed sugar.  Off to Whole Foods I go to purchase some blueberries.  I decided to replace sugar with honey and add a little lemon zest. It’s so easy to make, not to mention much healthier than any store-bought brands.

• Organic Blueberry Preserves – 2 cups
  • 3 cups organic blueberries (fresh or frozen) * I prefer fresh
  • 1/2 cup organic raw honey
  • 2 tablespoons organic, fresh lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (from organic lemon)

1. Place the blueberries in a medium saucepan and crush with a fork or potato masher
2. Add the honey, lemon juice, and zest and bring to boil over medium-high heat.  Let the mixture boil for about 15 minutes stirring frequently.  It will start to thicken.
3. When done, skim off any foam that might have developed and spoon jam into a container.
4. Cool to room temperature and store covered in the refrigerator.

Note:  My preserves last about month.  Freshness may vary.

Happy Preserve Making!!!