Mirabelle nectar

Nectar of sour cherries - a gift of summer, full of vitamins and flavor

When it comes to sour cherry nectar, we remember the warm summer days when the ripe fruits display their vibrant colors and sweet-sour aroma. This nectar is not just a delicious drink but also a source of essential nutrients. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing this refined yet simple nectar that will bring a touch of freshness to hot days.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 35-50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 4 servings

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of ripe sour cherries
- 400-500 g of sugar (depending on personal preference)
- Enough water to cover the cherries in the pot

Brief history:
Sour cherries, those small and fragrant fruits, have been cherished by generations for their unique taste. They are used in various preparations, from jams and preserves to delicious nectars. Sour cherry nectar has become popular due to its versatility and the way it blends sweetness with tartness, providing a refreshing flavor.

Step 1: Preparing the cherries
Start by washing the sour cherries well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities or leftover leaves. Then, remove the stems, as these details can affect the final texture of the nectar.

Step 2: Boiling the cherries
Place the cherries in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Then, add half of the sugar (200-250 g). Set the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 20-30 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Practical tips:
- If you want a sweeter nectar, you can add all the sugar, but be careful not to mask the natural flavor of the cherries.
- A healthy alternative to sugar would be honey or agave syrup, but the final result will have a different aroma.

Step 3: Straining the juice
After the cherries have boiled, take the pot off the heat and let it cool slightly. Use a strainer to separate the juice from the pulp. It is very important to ensure you get as much juice as possible, so you can use a spoon to press the pulp and extract the liquid.

Step 4: Removing the pits and skins
After straining the juice, take the cherry pulp from the strainer and carefully remove the pits and skins. This step may seem tedious, but it is essential for obtaining a smooth and velvety nectar. Once you are done, place the pulp in a blender and blend until it becomes a homogeneous puree.

Step 5: Mixing and final boiling
Mix the cherry puree with the obtained juice. Add the remaining sugar (200-250 g) and place the mixture back on medium heat. Boil for 15-20 minutes, skimming the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This is an important step, as the foam can influence the final texture of the nectar.

Personal suggestion:
If you want to add a special note, you can infuse the nectar with a hint of vanilla or a little freshly grated ginger. These flavors will enhance the taste of the cherries and provide an extra touch of refinement.

Step 6: Cooling and serving
After the nectar has finished boiling, allow it to cool and then transfer it to cleaned bottles or jars. It is recommended to store it in the refrigerator, where it will keep well. You can enjoy sour cherry nectar on its own, but it is also delicious mixed with sparkling water or in refreshing cocktails.

Nutritional benefits:
Sour cherries are rich in vitamins A and C, which support the immune system and skin health. They also contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can sour cherry nectar be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze sour cherry nectar in sealed containers. This way, you can enjoy the taste of summer even in winter.

2. Can I replace sugar with a natural sweetener?
Yes, you can use stevia or xylitol, but it is important to adjust the quantity according to their sweetening power.

3. What other recipes can I try with sour cherries?
Sour cherries are delicious in jams, tarts, or as a filling for cakes. You can also create a syrup for lemonade or cocktails with sour cherries.

This sour cherry nectar is not just a drink, but also a memory of summer, full of vitality and flavor. Enjoy preparing and savoring it!