Welcome to our latest feature in the #MNFoodPicks series, where we highlight standout Minnesota food brands making their mark in the local culinary scene. This time, we’re excited to introduce Serious Jam, a brand creating modern flavors using classic jam-making techniques.
Origin & Inspiration
The story of Serious Jam begins with a surplus of strawberries, a competitive spirit and friends eager for jam. Heidi Skoog, founder, first whipped up small batches of jam to share with friends. With a stream of requests for more and a growing love for the process, she took the leap and officially began her jam-making business in 2011.
When asked about her entrepreneurial journey, Skoog shares, “It’s all been a discovery and a series of connections that have helped me along the way.” Her passions for food and artistry guided her on this path.
Flavors that Inspire
To describe the Serious Jam process, Skoog says, “I make old-fashioned jams with new-fashioned flavors.” Adding modern ingredients and liqueurs make the fruit shine in each blend. One of her favorite flavors is the Violette Plum, which uses many varieties of local plums and finishes with a touch of violet liqueur. “It’s a fabulous taste of summer and in the middle of winter, maybe the best remembrance of sunny warms days.”
Seasonality plays a large role in the flavors that come from Serious Jam. Skoog adds, “The timing of the fruits is always exciting and often hilarious. You might not have a bit of fruit to process one week, and suddenly, the plums, pears, peaches, crabapples, tomatoes, apples, and gooseberries are ALL ripe and ready to go, ready or not.”
If you’re eager for fall flavors, keep your eye out for Serious Jam’s latest release: Chai Spiced Pear Butter.
Community & Sustainability
Based, made, and batched in Scandia, Minnesota, Serious Jam takes serious pride in keeping things as organic and local as possible. “I buy as much local fruit as I can get my paws on, and I love to tell the stories of my fruit farmers,” Skoog mentions.
Each jar reflects the care, effort and dedication behind the brand.
Find Serious Jam
Wondering where you can indulge in a jar? Find Serious Jam slinging their jams at Mill City Farmers Market, Cooks of Crocus Hill, and Honey and Rye. Additionally, this autumn through the holiday season, their online jam shop will be open for business.
Keep in touch with Serious Jam online on Instagram and their website.
