Carrot jam

Carrot Jam – An Unusual Delicacy You Can Make in Any Season

Who would have thought that carrots, these ordinary and healthy vegetables, could become a delicious and surprising jam? Carrot jam is a recipe that has gained popularity due to its unique flavor and versatility. This recipe not only enriches your taste but also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding us of the times when housewives ingeniously preserved their garden vegetables. Whether you serve it at breakfast alongside cheese or as a filling for cakes, carrot jam is a true indulgence.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 300 g

Necessary ingredients:

- 1000 g carrots (unpeeled)
- 800 g granulated sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 3 cups of cold water
- 1 lemon
- 1 orange
- 2-3 pieces of cinnamon
- 4 cloves

Preparing Carrot Jam: Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Sugar Syrup
In a large pot, add the 3 cups of cold water and granulated sugar. Place the pot on high heat and stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve. Once the mixture begins to boil, reduce the heat and let it boil at high intensity for about 10 minutes. This syrup will form the base for our jam.

Step 2: Preparing the Carrots
While the syrup is boiling, peel the carrots and grate them finely. This is a wonderful moment to enjoy the natural aroma of fresh carrots. Don’t forget to choose quality carrots, preferably organic, for a more intense flavor and better texture.

Step 3: Adding Carrots to the Syrup
After the syrup has boiled for 10 minutes, add the grated carrots to the pot. Mix well and reduce the heat to medium. Let the jam boil uncovered for about 30 minutes. You will notice how the carrots begin to soften and absorb the flavors of the syrup.

Step 4: Flavoring the Jam
After 30 minutes, it’s time to add the flavors. Squeeze the juice from the lemon and orange and add it to the pot. Also, add the zest from both fruits, cinnamon, and cloves. These spices will give a warm and comforting taste to your jam. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes, so the flavors blend perfectly.

Step 5: Bottling the Jam
When the jam reaches the desired consistency, it’s time to bottle it. Make sure the jars are sterilized before pouring the hot jam into them. You can sterilize the jars either by boiling or by washing them in the dishwasher on a hot cycle. Fill the jars to the brim, then seal them tightly. Let them sit in a warm place until the next day to cool gradually.

Step 6: Serving and Storing
After the jars have cooled, carefully remove the cinnamon sticks and cloves from the jam. Carrot jam pairs perfectly with toast, cottage cheese, or even as a filling for cakes. You can also serve it with a warm herbal tea or a sweet white wine to create an unforgettable culinary experience.

Nutritional Benefits
Carrot jam is not only a delicacy but also a healthy choice. Carrots are rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A in the body, contributing to eye and skin health. They also contain antioxidants and fiber, which aid digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use frozen carrots?
It is not recommended, as the texture will change and the jam will not have the same flavor.

2. Can I add other spices?
Of course! You can experiment with ginger, cardamom, or even nutmeg for interesting variations.

3. How can I store the jam?
The jam keeps well in sterilized jars at room temperature, away from direct light. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator.

Possible Variations
If you want to bring a touch of creativity to this classic recipe, you can add chopped nuts or raisins to the carrot mixture for a crunchy texture. You can also experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lime or grapefruit, to give your jam a different note.

In conclusion, carrot jam is a simple yet flavorful recipe that can bring a smile to anyone's face. So don’t hesitate to try this unusual recipe, enjoy its captivating aroma, and share a delicacy made with love with your loved ones! Happy cooking and bon appétit!