Did you know that a former pastry chef created a jam empire right here in Hackney? Welcome to the London Borough of Jam. It is a boutique jam manufacturer. Lillie O’Brien established it in 2011. She once worked at St John Bread and Wine.
London Borough of Jam stands out. It produces artisan jams in small batches. Think Greengage and Fennel Pollen. Imagine Rhubarb and Cardamom. They use less sugar than mainstream brands.
O’Brien uses unique ingredients. Loganberries come from Kent. She even uses homegrown rose geranium. Lemon verbena adds another layer. You can find these jams in independent shops. They’re all over Greater London. Some shops across the UK stock them too. Even the Royal National Theatre Shop carries them. The company ships to Singapore and Japan. In 2018, O’Brien went to Japan. She held workshops for two weeks. She made a limited edition Fig and Earl Grey jam. It was only available in Japan.
But there’s more than just jam. The London Borough of Jam operates a shop in Clapton. It offers a “dazzling and charming array” of goods. You’ll find magazines and homewares. They also sell specialty food and local spirits. The focus is on London-made products.
O’Brien shares her expertise. She wrote “Five Seasons Of Jam” in 2018. The cookbook details jam recipes for each season. Spring, summer, early autumn, late autumn and winter are all covered. She uses lesser-known ingredients. Anise Hyssop leaves are one example. Others include Loganberries and Tayberries. Lemon Balm leaves and stalks make an appearance. Don’t forget Jostaberries and Red Gooseberries. Even Liva Fragola Grapes get a moment.
During the 2020 pandemic, O’Brien created something special. She compiled “First Wash Your Hands: Recipes from Friends”. It featured 120 recipes from friends. All proceeds went to food charities. The Trussell Trust and the Young Leaders Fund benefited.
London Borough of Jam uses quality ingredients. They source seasonal fruits from the UK, France, Italy, and Spain. Victoria Plums and Greengages are favorites. Raspberries, Rhubarb, and Seville Oranges are also used. Unusual additions enhance the flavors. Bay leaf, cardamom, and cocoa nibs are examples. Lemon verbena and wild fennel pollen add complexity. Verjuice ties it all together. These combinations are natural and respectful.
London Borough of Jam preserves are unique. The flavor is honest. It’s fruit-driven not sugar-driven. You’ll always taste the fruit first. Then comes the sugar. A special flavor complements them. They use natural unrefined sugars. No commercial pectins are added. LBJ preserves contain no more than four ingredients. They are dairy free and vegan.
Consider serving LBJ on toasted sourdough. Mix it into hot porridge. Layer it between cakes. Use it as a cheese accompaniment. London Borough of Jam brings a unique taste. It captures the essence of quality and craftsmanship.