Berry Sweet Jam Workshop: Kitchen Chemistry & Small-Batch Spreads

Name: Berry Sweet Jam Workshop: Kitchen Chemistry & Small-Batch Spreads
Start: 2026-06-03T18:00:00-04:00
End: 2026-06-03T20:00:00-04:00
Location: East Lions Community Centre

Schedule

Wed Jun 03 2026 at 06:00 pm to 08:00 pm

UTC-04:00

Location

East Lions Community Centre | London, ON

Join us at the East Lions Community Centre to dive into the sweet science of small-batch preserves! This hands-on session focuses on turning seasonal berries into vibrant, fridge-stable jam. We’ll explore the chemistry behind fruit preservation, the role of pectin, and the best techniques for capturing peak-season flavour without the need for complex canning equipment at home.

Date: Wednesday, June 3, 2026
Time: Kitchen doors open at 5:45 PM, workshop begins at 6:00 PM
Location: East Lions Community Centre, 1731 Churchill Ave, London, ON N5W 5P4

What You’ll Experience:
- Meet Your Community & Connect: We’ll start with a quick icebreaker so you can meet the people at your station and get settled in.
- Fruit Sanitation & Jam Science: We’ll walk through the vinegar and water soak method—a process that kills mold spores and breaks down cell walls to create a tastier, more intense berry. During the soak, we’ll discuss the nutrition of berries and the science of pectin. You'll learn the pros and cons of using store-bought pectin versus boiling fruit longer to activate naturally occurring pectin.
- Preservation Demonstration: While our jam is for the fridge, we’ll demonstrate what a full water-bath canning setup looks like. We’ll explain how to make jam shelf-stable and why using brand-new lids is a non-negotiable for a safe seal. We’ll also mention resources like the Thing Library where you can find water bath canners and other tools for those interested in exploring shelf-stable canning further.
- Hands-on Jam Making: Working in groups, you’ll head to your stations to prep and cook your berries using electric hotpots. We’ll practice the "set test" to ensure your jam has reached the perfect consistency before jarring.
- Tasting & Discussion: As our jars cool, we’ll have a sensory talk about the textures and aromas of the preserves. Everyone will leave with their own 250mL mason jar of custom berry jam to enjoy at home.
- Wrap-Up & Community Care: We’ll share storage tips (remember, this one stays in the fridge!) before pitching in to get the stations and the kitchen cleaned up.

A Welcoming Space for Everyone:
At Grow Cook Learn, we believe that healthy eating looks different for everyone. This is a judgment-free space where all bodies, backgrounds, and skill levels are celebrated. We focus on food neutrality and the joy of building skills as a community.
Families & Children:
Kids are absolutely welcome! Please keep in mind that the workshop involves working with hot liquids and electric hotpots. We expect all participants to follow safe handling practices as we share tools and space. We are happy to make accommodations—please let us know if you require any specific arrangements when you register.

What to Bring:
- Your enthusiasm and curiosity!
- Closed-toe kitchen appropriate shoes
- A hair tie or clip to secure long hair during preparation.
- A personal lock if you would like to use the on-site lockers for your phone or wallet.
Note: All ingredients, 250mL jars, and tools are provided. For kitchen safety, coats and large bags will be kept in the designated area just outside of the room.

Accessibility & Parking:
The East Lions Community Centre is a fully accessible facility. There is ample free parking available onsite. The community kitchen features accessible entrances and bathrooms, as well as adjustable-height tables. While the main countertops are standard height, the kitchen includes a dedicated wheelchair-accessible section with a sink and countertop to ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.

About East Lions Community Centre:
The East Lions Community Centre is a vibrant hub for the Argyle community and beyond. This modern facility offers a wide range of programming, including a full-sized pool, gymnasiums, and specialized rooms for art and weaving classes. The centre features a professional community kitchen space designed for collaborative learning and nutrition education. Outdoors, the facility is surrounded by a large park featuring accessible playgrounds, basketball courts, and space for soccer. Whether you are looking for yoga, Pilates, or a place to connect with neighbours, East Lions serves as a cornerstone for recreation and wellness in London. We are excited to be borrowing their kitchen space for our workshop. Learn more at East Lions Community Centre.

About Grow Cook Learn:
The London Community Resource Centre (LCRC) is a non-profit organisation dedicated to building community through food education and security. Grow Cook Learn is one of LCRC’s core programs, offering hands-on workshops that promote nutrition literacy, foster community connections, and build confidence in the kitchen.

Disclaimers:
- Ingredient Selection: Berry availability (fresh vs. frozen) may vary based on budget and seasonal supply.
- Allergen Note: All ingredients provided are vegan. This workshop involves berries and vinegar. If you have specific allergies, please inform us during registration.
- Group Work: Due to limited access to electrical plug-ins and equipment, you will gather into groups to create jam recipes. Each household or participant will be welcomed to take home a 250mL jar of jam.
- Attendance Policy: To ensure a quality experience, please plan to attend the entire session. Arriving late means missing vital safety information regarding hotpot use and food sanitation, leaving early may result in incomplete recipes.