Aromatic raspberry jam

Aromatic raspberry jam

If you want to bring a touch of summer to every morning, raspberry jam is the perfect choice. A simple and quick recipe that combines the intense flavor of raspberries with the sweetness of sugar, creating a delight you won't tire of savoring. In this recipe, I will guide you through the necessary steps to achieve a perfect raspberry jam, full of flavor and with a delicious texture.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 250g

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh raspberries
- 1 kg sugar
- juice from 1 lemon

Ingredient details:
Raspberries are a fruit rich in vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy choice for jams. Choose well-ripened raspberries, preferably from local sources, for an intense flavor. Sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps preserve it. Lemon juice not only balances the sweetness but also contributes to achieving a gelatinous texture due to pectin.

Step 1: Washing the raspberries
Start by washing the raspberries under a gentle stream of water. It is important to wash them gently to avoid crushing the fruits. After washing, let the raspberries drain in a sieve to remove excess water. This step is essential to avoid diluting the jam.

Step 2: Preparing the jam
In an enameled pot, add the drained raspberries and sugar. Gently mix to combine the ingredients. Then, place the pot over medium heat. It is important to stir occasionally so that the sugar dissolves evenly and the raspberries do not stick to the bottom of the pot. Let the mixture boil, observing how the raspberries release their juice.

Step 3: Adding the lemon juice
After about 20 minutes, when the jam starts to thicken (the test is simple: you can check the consistency with a spoon), add the lemon juice. Continue to simmer the jam on low heat, stirring occasionally. This is the moment to enjoy the wonderful aroma that fills the kitchen!

Step 4: Testing the consistency
To check if the jam is ready, you can do a simple test: take a teaspoon of the jam and place it on a cold plate. Let it sit for a few seconds, then tilt the plate. If the jam holds on the plate and does not run, it is ready! If not, let it cook for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Jarring the jam
Once you have achieved the desired consistency, take sterilized jars (you can do this by boiling or in the oven) and pour the hot jam into them, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and turn them upside down for about 1 hour. This step helps create a vacuum, essential for preservation.

Serving and combinations
Raspberry jam is perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh bread, but it can also be used as a delicious filling for pancakes or fried doughnuts. You can also add the jam to yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthy and tasty breakfast.

Variations and tips:
If you want to experiment, you can add spices like vanilla or cinnamon to give your jam a special note. You can also combine raspberries with other fruits, such as strawberries or blackberries, to create a delicious jam mixture.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, you can use frozen raspberries, but make sure to let them thaw completely and drain before using.

2. How can I tell if the jam is properly preserved?
If the jam has cooled completely and the jar lid is sealed tightly (if you press the center of the lid and it doesn't click, it means it is sealed properly), then it is preserved correctly.

3. How long does the jam last?
Raspberry jam can be stored in the pantry for 1 year as long as it is sealed properly. After opening, keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 weeks.

Nutrition:
Each serving of raspberry jam (approximately 1 tablespoon) contains about 50 calories, 13g of carbohydrates, and 0g of protein. It is an excellent source of vitamins A and C and provides a boost of antioxidants.

Raspberry jam is not only a delicious treat but also a way to preserve summer so you can enjoy its flavors throughout the year. So put on your chef's clothes, prepare your ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the sublime flavors of raspberries!