Acacia flower jam

Acacia flower jam – a natural and aromatic delight

If you are looking for a jam recipe that brings the aroma of spring directly to your table, then acacia flower jam is the perfect choice. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also add a touch of elegance and refinement to any dessert. Moreover, making this jam is a joyful activity that connects you with nature and childhood memories spent on warm summer days.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 10 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars

Ingredients:
- 500 g fresh acacia flowers
- 1.5 l water
- 1 kg sugar
- Juice from 1/2 lemon

I. A short story about acacia flower jam

Acacia flower jam is a traditional recipe, cherished for centuries for its delicate aroma and sweet-dark taste. The acacia tree, with its white and fragrant flowers, blooms at the beginning of summer, bringing an explosion of flavors. This jam can be enjoyed on toast, as a filling in pastries, or even as a topping for ice cream. It is a symbol of summer and simple joy, a perfect gift for loved ones.

II. Making the jam

1. Preparing the acacia flowers

Start by picking fresh acacia flowers, preferably in the morning when their aroma is at its peak. Ensure the flowers are clean, free from impurities or insects. Rinse them gently under cold running water to remove any residue. It is important to use only the white flowers, as the green parts of the plant can add a bitter taste.

2. Preparing the syrup

In a large pot, add 1.5 liters of water and 1 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. Continue to boil the syrup for about 1.5 hours, or until it thickens and reduces to almost half. This is a moment when the sweet aroma of melted sugar will fill your kitchen.

3. Adding the flowers

After the syrup has reduced, carefully add the washed acacia flowers, stirring gently to incorporate them. Allow the mixture to simmer over medium heat for another hour. During this time, the flowers will release their wonderful aroma, and the syrup will take on a golden hue and a thicker texture.

4. Adding the lemon juice

Five minutes before turning off the heat, add the juice from 1/2 lemon. This step is essential, as the acidity of the lemon will help balance the sweetness and add a note of freshness to your jam.

5. Bottling

After the jam has cooked, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Prepare clean, sterilized jars, and carefully pour the jam into them, filling them up to 1 cm from the top. Seal the jars with airtight lids and let them cool to room temperature. Once cooled, you can store them in a dark, cool place.

III. Practical tips for perfect jam

- Choose acacia flowers on warm days when they are fully open to achieve maximum aroma.
- Do not use chemically treated acacia flowers; look for organic sources or pick them from unpolluted areas.
- To check if the syrup is ready, drop a few drops on a cold plate; if it thickens and forms a compact drop, it's time to add the flowers.
- You can experiment with other flavors by adding a few mint leaves or a splash of flower water for an exotic note.

IV. Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use dried acacia flowers?
Typically, acacia flower jam is made with fresh flowers, but if you do not have access to fresh ones, you can use dried flowers, keeping in mind that the aroma will be less intense.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the jam?
You can add a few drops of vanilla extract or even a little cinnamon for a more complex taste.

3. How long can the jam be stored?
Acacia flower jam can be stored for up to 1 year, as long as it is properly stored in sterilized jars and in a cool, dark place.

V. Serving suggestions and combinations

Acacia flower jam is delicious on a slice of toast, but it can also be used as a filling for pancakes or as a topping for Greek yogurt. It is also perfect alongside a cup of herbal tea or fresh lemonade.

VI. Nutritional details

This jam is high in calories due to the sugar, but it can be enjoyed in moderation. Acacia flowers are rich in antioxidants and may have beneficial effects on the immune system. The jam can bring a touch of joy and a sense of comfort, especially on chilly winter days.

VII. Recipe variations

For a more exotic version, you can add a splash of rose water or combine acacia flowers with lavender flowers to create a jam with a more complex aromatic profile. You can also try adding some berries for a mixed jam.

Acacia flower jam is not only a delight but also a way to preserve summer memories. By making it, you will discover the joy of creating something special, and each jar will be a little treasure to share with loved ones. So, do not hesitate to try this simple and refined recipe, and your summers will become sweeter!