Bourbon Blueberry Jam

Blueberry Season is so delicious.

I found my thrill in a jar of Bourbon Blueberry Jam!

I love going to the farmers market during this time of year and seeing all the freshest fruits and vegetables on display.  The colors are so vibrant and everything is in abundance.  I try to source my products locally whenever possible, so it should come as no surprise that when I walked through the market a booth with rich, ripe bluer-than-blue blueberries immediately caught my eye.  I couldn’t resist.  I bought a couple of pints, and as I predicted they were so delicious. 

I just happened to be in my kitchen working on a batch of my limited edition, seasonal Strawberry Jalapeno Jam, when I had a fabulous idea. Why not mix nature’s “superfood” with the best of Kentucky’s finest?  So after some rounds of testing and tasting, the In the Curious Kitchen Limited Edition Bourbon Blueberry Jam was created.

I’m so excited to introduce this new addition to our delightful lineup of jams and jellies. The Bourbon Blueberry Jam is a limited edition treat that will only be available at the markets, festivals, and in our shop for the next couple of months-while the berries are in their peak season. The perennial favorite Hot Pepper Jelly is available year-round and our seasonal favorite Strawberry Jalapeno Jam is a hit with many of our market guests.  Both are NOW available in our online shop. 

 The flavors in the Bourbon Blueberry Jam are intense but not overwhelming.  There’s definitely a little kick from the bourbon and the blueberries pair nicely with the spirits without being overly sweet. 

Always thinking of recipes and entertaining tips, I immediately started experimenting and found that the Bourbon Blueberry Jam is every bit as versatile as its jam and jelly cousins.  And it wouldn’t be the Curious Kitchen without kicking things off with a cocktail. The Blueberry Bourbon Sour is one of my favorite summer treats–it really is a winner. The Bourbon Blueberry Jam just takes this concoction to the next level.  As you sip, stir the flavors together, for an amazing blueberry sensation.  My favorite bourbon to use in this drink is Old Forester 86. Its low proof makes it the perfect choice for mixing and it doesn’t overpower the delicate flavor of the blueberries. 

Try the Bourbon Blueberry Jam with a nice creamy brie and perfectly seared steak for a wonderful appetizer that is a whiz to make.  The Blueberry, Brie and Sirloin Crostini is fabulous–just a few delicious ingredients tie this amazing bite together for when friends and family gather.  The original recipe calls for a Blueberry Compote but the Blueberry Bourbon Jam is a quick and easy replacement. 

Another quick appetizer that packs a delicious punch involves one of my favorite cheeses.  Simply spread the Bourbon Blueberry Jam over your favorite goat cheese and, well, it is so, so good.  Simple and good–the best combination. 

The Bourbon Blueberry Jam is the perfect addition to your summer charcuterie board.  For me, there’s never a bad time for charcuterie but I do like to change it up a bit for every season.  The jam, a few fresh blueberries tossed here and there, a few cheese and meats, some crunchy crackers, and there you have it. 

I am sure that however you choose to use the Bourbon Blueberry Jam it will be delicious.  Add your own curious twist to create some new recipes.  Send photos and the recipe, and I will share it so that we can all give it a try!  

And that’s really what it’s all about, trying new tastes, experimenting with new flavors, spending time with your family and friends, and having some fun in the kitchen.  If If I had just one piece of entertaining advice to share it would be to enjoy the party.  Don’t get stuck in the kitchen. Plan ahead and prep ahead. Make your guests feel at ease with your effortless elegance.

Cheers!

MK