Quince jam with nuts

Quince Jam with Walnuts – The Scent of Autumn

Who doesn't love the sweet and comforting aroma of quince jam? This recipe is not just a simple preserve, but a true journey into childhood memories, bringing with it the warmth and nostalgia of autumn. Each jar contains not just fruit and sugar, but also a story about the harvest season, about moments spent with loved ones, savoring a slice of toasted bread with butter and a teaspoon of this delicacy.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 9 cups of diced quince (about 1.5 kg of quinces)
- 2 cups of water (each cup is 250 ml)
- 1,250 g sugar
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar
- juice of one and a half lemons
- 350 g roasted walnuts

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the quinces: Start by peeling the quinces of their characteristic fuzz. Wash them well under running water, then cut them in half and remove the woody part. Then, cut each half into suitable-sized cubes, about 1-2 cm. Immediately sprinkle them with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and keep their beautiful color.

2. Preparing the syrup: In a large pot, add the two cups of water and sugar. Boil the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar completely dissolves. Now, to check if the syrup is well bound, take a glass of cold water and drop a few drops of syrup into it. If the drops form small beads that sink, the syrup is ready. Otherwise, let it boil a little longer.

3. Adding the quinces: Once the syrup is perfect, add the quince cubes. Boil over medium heat for about 50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The quinces will absorb the syrup's aroma and transform into a delicious jam, taking on a deep reddish hue during cooking.

4. Adding the walnuts and flavors: About 10 minutes before turning off the heat, add the vanilla sugar, roasted walnuts, and lemon pulp. The walnuts should be pre-roasted, and I recommend roasting them in the microwave to save time. Place the walnuts in a bowl and roast them for 1-2 minutes, checking constantly to avoid burning. After they have cooled, rub the pulp between your palms to remove the skin and then break them into larger pieces to add texture to the jam.

5. Preserving the jam: When the jam is ready, prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and well-dried. Fill them with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Close the jars with the lids and place them upside down on a tray. Cover them with blankets and let them cool completely, ideally until the next day. This is a preservation method that helps create a perfect seal.

6. Storing: Once the jars have cooled, store them in the pantry, in a cool and dark place. The quince jam with walnuts can be kept for a few months, but I'm sure it won't last long before being consumed!

Useful tips:
- Quinces are best when ripe but still firm. Choose fruits that have a uniform color, without spots or signs of mold.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar by about 200 g.
- For a unique note, you can add a pinch of cinnamon during boiling.
- Quince jam with walnuts pairs perfectly with cheeses, especially goat cheese, or can be used as a filling for cakes and pies.

Nutritional benefits:
Quinces are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. Walnuts add extra protein and omega-3 fatty acids, benefiting heart health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use another type of nuts?
Sure! Almonds or hazelnuts can add a different and interesting flavor to the jam.
- Is it necessary to use lemon?
Lemon juice not only helps prevent oxidation but also contributes to the balance of sweet taste, providing a note of freshness.

In conclusion, quince jam with walnuts is not just a simple recipe, but an experience that blends tradition and taste. Enjoy each jar with pleasure, and in winter, when it snows outside, you can enjoy the warm memories of autumn. Try adding it to breakfast, using it as a topping for pancakes, or even pairing it with vanilla ice cream for an unforgettable dessert! Bon appétit!