Fragrant pumpkin jam with anise and cinnamon

The fragrant pumpkin jam with star anise and cinnamon is a delight that perfectly combines the natural sweetness of pumpkin with warm and spicy notes of spices. It is a recipe that not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia, rekindling childhood memories when the aromas of autumn filled every home. Moreover, it is a wonderful recipe for the cold season, perfect to be enjoyed alongside pancakes, cakes, or simply on a slice of toasted bread.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4 jars of 250 ml

Ingredients:

- 3 large cubes of aromatic pumpkin (approximately 600 g)
- 300 g sugar
- 150 ml water
- 5 star anise
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon

Ingredient details:

- Pumpkin: Choose Hokkaido or Butternut pumpkin, as they have an intense flavor and creamy texture. Fresh pumpkin will bring the natural sweetness and vibrant hue to your jam.
- Sugar: Use white sugar for a classic sweetness, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a more complex flavor.
- Anise: Star anise provides a distinct taste, similar to that of licorice. This is a key ingredient that will transform your jam into a true delicacy.
- Cinnamon: This warm and fragrant spice is perfect for complementing the sweetness of the pumpkin, adding a touch of comfort and warmth.

Step by step for a perfect jam:

1. Preparing the pumpkin: Peel the pumpkin and cut it into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Ensure that all pieces are of uniform size for even cooking.

2. Boiling the pumpkin: In a double-bottomed pot, add the pumpkin cubes, sugar, and water. Stir gently to combine the ingredients. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Adding spices: After 30 minutes, add the star anise and ground cinnamon. Continue to cook on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step will allow the flavors to meld and intensify.

4. Checking the consistency: The jam is ready when the pumpkin becomes soft and the syrup thickens. You can check the consistency with a simple test: drop a little jam on a cold plate and see if it holds its shape.

5. Bottling: Once the jam is ready, turn off the heat and pour the hot mixture into sterilized jars. Ensure that the jars are sealed to prevent air from entering. Close the jars with lids and let them cool completely.

6. Storing: Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. The pumpkin jam can be consumed for several months, but it certainly won't last long, considering how delicious it is!

Serving suggestions:

The fragrant pumpkin jam is extremely versatile. You can use it:

- As a filling for pies, adding some nuts for texture.
- On pancakes or waffles, alongside sour cream or Greek yogurt.
- As a topping for ice cream, adding a drizzle of melted chocolate on top.
- In combination with cheeses, for a sophisticated snack.

Nutritional benefits:

This pumpkin jam is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamin A, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to eye health and better digestion. Anise has anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion, while cinnamon is known for its ability to regulate blood sugar levels.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen pumpkin?
Yes! Frozen pumpkin is a convenient choice. Make sure to thaw and drain it well before using.

2. How can I enhance the flavor of the jam?
You can add a few drops of lemon juice to balance the sweetness or include other spices, such as ginger for a spicy kick.

3. How long can the jam be stored?
If stored in airtight jars in a cool place, the jam can last up to a year.

4. What other recipes can I try with pumpkin?
I highly recommend the pumpkin pie recipe or pumpkin cream soup, both of which are equally delicious and easy to prepare.

The fragrant pumpkin jam with star anise and cinnamon is not just a simple recipe, but also a wonderful way to bring the flavors of autumn into your life. Whether you use it as a special ingredient in desserts or simply enjoy it, this jam will surely become a favorite in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients and enjoy the cooking process!