Plum jam

Plum Jam Recipe - A Natural Delight

If you are looking for a simple and quick recipe to turn plums into something special, plum jam is the perfect choice. This recipe will not only provide you with a delicious jam but will also fill your home with an inviting aroma. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicacy that you will enjoy at breakfast, on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for cakes.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 4 hours
Total time: 4 hours and 10 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 5 kg of ripe plums (choose well-ripened plums without spots or signs of damage)
- 1 kg of fructose (a natural sugar substitute with a lower glycemic index)
- water (enough to cover the plums during cooking)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Plums: Start by washing the plums thoroughly under cold running water. It is essential to remove any impurities. Then, cut the plums in half and remove the pits. This step will make the jam smoother and more pleasant to taste.

2. Macerate the Plums: Place the cleaned plums in a large bowl and sprinkle the fructose over them. Mix well so that all the plums are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature overnight. This process will help extract the juice from the plums, intensifying the flavor of the jam.

3. Cooking the Jam: The next day, transfer the plums to a large pot. Add enough water to just cover the plums, then place the pot over medium heat. When the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Checking the Consistency: After 4 hours of cooking, check the consistency of the jam. You can do the drop test on a cold saucer. If the drop holds its shape and does not run, the jam is ready.

5. Jarring the Jam: Prepare the jars by sterilizing them. You can do this by boiling the jars and lids for 10 minutes. Once the jars are cool, fill them with the hot jam, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Seal the jars with the lids and let them cool completely.

6. Serving Suggestions: This plum jam is perfect for serving on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for cakes and muffins. You can add a little cinnamon or nutmeg during cooking for an even more aromatic flavor.

Possible Variations:
- Add a few drops of lemon juice for a touch of freshness.
- Experiment with other fruits, such as apricots or peaches, to create delicious combinations.

Practical Tips:
- Make sure the plums are well-ripened for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, you can use a blender to puree the plums after they have cooked.

This plum jam is an excellent way to preserve fruits and enjoy their taste throughout the year. Try this simple recipe and turn your plums into something truly special!