Apricot jam with lemon

Apricot Jam with Lemon - a Delight in a Jar

Apricot jam is a delicacy that evokes pleasant memories of warm summers and evenings spent around the table, sharing stories and joys. It is a simple recipe but with an intense flavor, perfect for enjoying on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for delicious pastries. Today, I will guide you step by step in making apricot jam with lemon, which will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of sunshine to every jar.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 300g

Ingredients:
- 1 kg ripe, fresh apricots
- 1 kg granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon lemon salt
- juice from 1/2 lemon
- 3-4 glasses of water

The history of apricot jam
Apricot jam has a long tradition in fruit preserving, being appreciated for its fresh aroma and velvety texture. The origins of this recipe date back to ancient times when people began preserving fruits to enjoy them outside of the season. Apricot jam is loved by many cultures, each having its own variations, but the secret remains the same: quality fruits and patience in preparation.

Step by step - Your guide to perfect jam

1. Preparing the apricots
- Choose ripe but firm apricots, free from spots or signs of damage. Buy them at the market or store, ensuring they are in season for maximum flavor.
- Wash the apricots well under cold running water to remove impurities. Pit them and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on their size.

2. Preparing the syrup
- In a large pot, add the sugar and water. Stir well and place it over medium heat. Wait until the sugar completely dissolves, forming a syrup.
- Add the lemon salt and lemon juice to the syrup. These ingredients will not only add a pleasant taste but also help preserve the color and flavors of the fruits.

3. Adding the apricots
- Once the syrup starts to boil, add the cut apricots. Gently stir to evenly coat them with syrup.
- Let the mixture boil, then reduce the heat to low. Here, patience is essential - let the jam boil for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Testing the consistency
- To check if the jam is ready, you can perform the "plate test." Place a teaspoon of the hot jam on a cold plate and let it cool for a few seconds. If it thickens and does not run, it is ready. If it is too runny, let it cook for a few more minutes.

5. Jarring the jam
- Prepare the jars: wash them well with warm water and let them dry completely. You can also sterilize them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 10-15 minutes.
- Once the jam is ready, pour it into jars, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars with airtight lids.

6. Cooling and storing
- Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place. The apricot jam is now ready to be enjoyed!

Practical tips for a perfect result
- Always choose ripe but firm fruits to achieve a pleasant texture in your jam.
- You can experiment by adding other flavors, such as a pinch of cinnamon or a few mint leaves, for an interesting twist.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but remember that sugar helps with preservation.

Frequently asked questions
- Why is lemon salt added?
Lemon salt helps maintain the color and flavors of the fruits, also serving a preservative role.

- How can I check if the jam is ready?
The plate test is a simple and effective method. Use a cold plate to check the consistency.

- How long does the jam last?
If stored properly, apricot jam can last up to a year.

Delicious combinations
Apricot jam with lemon pairs perfectly with soft cheeses like brie or camembert. You can also use it as a filling for pastries, pies, or even in yogurt desserts. It can be an excellent topping for pancakes or waffles, bringing a note of freshness and sweetness.

Nutritional benefits
Apricots are rich in vitamins such as A, C, and E, and also have a good content of fiber and antioxidants. Apricot jam, although a delicacy, can be enjoyed in moderation, considering its sugar content. However, incorporating fresh fruits into your diet can bring numerous health benefits.

Possible variations
Don't limit yourself to apricots! You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or plums, combined with lemon to achieve unique flavors. Another delicious option is adding toasted nuts or almonds for a crunchy texture.

For a perfect finish, don't forget to enjoy the process! Cooking is an art that thrives on passion and creativity. So put a smile on your face and let your imagination run wild! Apricot jam with lemon is not just a recipe, but an experience full of flavors and memories. Bon appétit!