Jam On

I was honestly giddy as I read this book! Jam On by Laena McCarthy is a treasure trove of recipes that is absolutely perfect for this time of year with all of the berries ripe for the picking. McCarthy does a wonderful job of making jam, preserves, and even syrups, approachable and exciting. Her featured stories (including her journey to becoming a jam queen) are intriguing, but her recipes are even more fascinating. With enticing flavors like watermelon and lemongrass jelly, spiced beer jelly, sour cherry preserves, and Meyer lemon marmalade, Jam On is a contemporary cook’s dream. There are exotic flavors like blackberry and lavender jam, and the good old standbys like wild blueberry jam. With thorough descriptions and step-by-step photos, this book is as fun for first-time jam makers as it is for preserving pros. Plus, there is an entire section dedicated to all of the ideal pairings for the homemade jams and jellies featured in the book. Recipes like Laena’s Ginger Scones, Anarchy Marmalade Manhattan, and Panpepato Honey and Spice Cake, make this book more than just a jam and jelly cookbook. Jam On is a delight with a great assortment of the preserved, pickled, and just plain delicious!