apricot jam

Apricot Jam: The Delight of Summer in a Jar

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400g

Apricots are delicious and juicy fruits, perfect for being transformed into a flavorful jam that reminds us of warm summer days. This apricot jam recipe is simple and quick, giving you the chance to enjoy a homemade delicacy throughout the year. Here’s how to make the perfect apricot jam, step by step.

Ingredients:
- 3 kg fresh apricots
- 3 kg granulated sugar

Preparation:

1. Preparing the apricots: Start by washing the apricots well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. This step is essential for achieving a clean and tasty jam. Then, cut each apricot in half and remove the pits. It’s important to use well-ripened apricots, as they will contribute to the intense flavor of the jam.

2. Macerating the apricots: Place the prepared apricots in a large pot and sprinkle the sugar over them. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 hours. During this time, the apricots will release juice, and the sugar will begin to dissolve, forming a natural syrup. This step is crucial for obtaining a jam with a perfect texture.

3. Cooking the jam: After the apricots have rested, place the pot over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking until the mixture reaches a boiling point. Then, reduce the heat and let it boil for about 40-50 minutes. It is advisable to use a wooden spoon for stirring, as it will not scratch the pot.

4. Checking the consistency: To check if the jam is ready, you can use the cold plate method. Place a drop of jam on a cold plate and tilt it slightly. If the drop holds and does not run, the jam is ready. If it is still too fluid, continue to boil for a few more minutes.

5. Bottling: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Fill the sterilized jars with the hot jam, leaving a small distance of 1 cm from the edge. Cover the jars with airtight lids to prevent oxidation, then turn them upside down to create a vacuum.

Suggestions and variations:
- Adding flavor: For an even more interesting apricot jam, try adding a pinch of cinnamon or a few cardamom pods during cooking.
- Serving: Apricot jam is perfect on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for cakes and tarts. You can also use it to add a touch of sweetness to natural yogurt.
- Storage: Stored in a cool, dark place, apricot jam lasts up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.

Now that you have all the details, all that’s left is to get cooking! Enjoy the flavors of summer and the satisfaction of making a delicious homemade jam!