Plum jam with cinnamon

Plum Jam with Cinnamon: A Fall Delight

When autumn showcases its warm colors and unmistakable aromas, there’s nothing more comforting than enjoying a plum jam with cinnamon, a recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia and warmth to every jar. This aromatic jam is not only an excellent way to preserve the plum harvest but also a pure joy that you can savor on a slice of fresh bread or alongside a serving of cheese.

Preparation time: 1 hour (mostly passive)
Cooking time: 1 hour and 50-60 minutes
Total: Approximately 2 hours and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:

- 2.5 kg of Bistrita plums (or other seasonal plums)
- 1 kg of sugar
- 2 sticks of cinnamon
- Juice from 1/2 lemon

A Bit of History

Plum jam is a traditional recipe, cherished for centuries for its flavor and the way it preserves fruits. In many cultures, jams and preserves have been used not only as desserts but also as methods of preservation, providing a way to enjoy fruits out of season. Cinnamon, frequently used in sweet dishes, adds a warm and comforting aroma, perfect for chilly autumn evenings.

Step by Step: Cooking Plum Jam

1. Preparing the Plums
Start by washing the plums well. Choose ripe yet firm plums to achieve a jam with a pleasant texture. After washing, remove the pits and stems. This step may seem laborious, but the result will be worth the effort!

2. Marinating the Plums
Place the cut plums in a large pot. Add the sugar and mix well. Let the plums sit for about an hour so they release their juice. This is an essential step, as the juice generated by the plums will contribute to cooking the jam.

3. Adding the Flavors
After an hour, add the two sticks of cinnamon to the pot. Their aroma will infuse the jam with a warm and pleasant taste.

4. Baking
Preheat the oven to 200 degrees Celsius. Place the pot with the plums in the oven and let it simmer for an hour. Baking helps caramelize the sugar and intensify the flavors.

5. Boiling on the Stove
After an hour, transfer the pot to the stove and set the heat to low. Continue to boil the jam for 50-60 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step is crucial for concentrating the flavors and thickening the jam.

6. Adding the Lemon
When the jam begins to set (you can check the consistency by doing a plate test), add the lemon juice. The lemon not only brings a balance of acidity but also helps preserve the color and flavors. Let the jam cook for another 5-10 minutes.

7. Preparing the Jars
While the jam is on the heat, prepare the jars. You can sterilize them in a preheated oven at 150 degrees Celsius for 10-15 minutes. This will ensure that the jam keeps well for a longer period.

8. Filling the Jars
When the jam is ready, remove the cinnamon sticks and carefully pour the hot jam into the sterilized jars. Screw the lids on immediately and cover the jars with a blanket until they cool completely. This slow cooling method helps create a vacuum, thus extending the shelf life.

9. Storage
After the jars have cooled, store them in the pantry. Your plum jam with cinnamon is now ready to be enjoyed throughout the winter!

Serving Suggestions

Plum jam with cinnamon is delicious on a slice of fresh bread with butter. It also pairs perfectly with cheeses, bringing a pleasant contrast between sweet and salty. For a more elaborate dessert, use the jam as a filling for pancakes or as a topping for Greek yogurt, sprinkled with toasted nuts.

Variations and Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with adding extra flavors, such as ginger or vanilla, for a more complex taste.
- Alternative Sugar: If you want a healthier option, you can use brown sugar or honey, keeping in mind that the textures and flavors may change.
- Preservation: The jam can be stored in tightly sealed jars in a cool, dark place for 1-2 years.

Nutritional Benefits

Plums are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, K, and fiber, making them a healthy food choice. Moreover, homemade jams, free from additives or preservatives, offer safety and authentic taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know when the jam is ready?
You can do a simple test: put a spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If it sets and doesn’t run, it’s ready!

2. Can I use other types of fruit?
Absolutely! This recipe can easily be adapted with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or apricots.

3. Can the jam be frozen?
While it’s better to keep it in jars, you can freeze the jam, but it will require a smaller portion.

Enjoy your plum jam with cinnamon, a sweet treat that will bring a touch of sunshine to cold days! Bon appétit!