Yes, You Can: Preserving Practice: Jams and Jellies

Making jams and jellies at home is a simple and rewarding way to preserve food. With just fruit, sugar, pectin, and a few essential kitchen tools, you can create flavorful spreads your family will love. Understanding the basic principles behind the process, such as balancing the proper ratio of fruit, pectin, acid, and sugar, is key to achieving a perfect set and a safe product.

University of Illinois Extension will offer Preserving Practice: Jams and Jellies to build your food preservation skills and gain kitchen confidence. This hands-on workshop begins in the classroom and then moves to the kitchen for a practical experience. During the first portion of the class, participants will learn about the different types of sweet spreads, the science behind gel formation, and essential jam- and jelly-making techniques. In the second half, participants will put their knowledge into action by preparing their own jar of jam to take home.

Preserving Practice: Jams and Jellies will be held Saturday, May 30, from 9 AM to Noon, at the U of I Extension Office located in Building R at Highland Community College, 2998 W. Pearl City Road, Freeport, IL.