Blues and Bay

1. 1

   Preheat the oven to 300F.

2. 2

   Start by making a fruit syrup: mix the sugar with 2 1/2 cups of water in a pan and bring slowly to a boil to dissolve the sugar.

3. 3

   Remove from the heat, add the lemon juice, cover, and keep warm.

4. 4

   Pick over the berries, removing any twiggy bits or leaves.

5. 5

   Pack them firmly, without crushing, into warm, sterilized jars (see p. 152), sliding the bay leaves attractively around the sides of the jars.

6. 6

   Bring the sugar syrup to a boil and pour over the berries, filling the jars to the brim.

7. 7

   Cover with lids, but do not fasten the clips or put on the screw-bands (see p. 158).

8. 8

   Put the jars, 2 inches apart, in the oven for 30 minutes.

9. 9

   Carefully remove the jars, seal with screw-bands or clips immediately, and place on a wooden surface, newspaper, or folded cloth.

10. 10

    Leave undisturbed until completely cool, and check the seal the following day (see p. 158).

11. 11

    Use within 1 year.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.