Red currant jam

Red Currant Jam - A Sweet and Tart Delicacy

When it comes to sweets, red currant jam is definitely a gem in any household. This jam, more of a sweet-tart jelly, is perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh bread or adding to delicious desserts. Red currants, with their vibrant flavor and bright color, not only enrich recipes but are also packed with nutrients. They contain a significant amount of vitamin C, potassium, iron, and fiber, contributing to a healthy lifestyle.

The history of red currant jam is fascinating, with deep roots in culinary traditions, where berries were often preserved for consumption during the winter. This jam is truly a secret weapon, ideal for stimulating digestion, having beneficial effects on the skin, and helping to maintain a healthy weight.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Servings: approximately 4 jars of 300g

Ingredients:
- 1 kg red currants
- 500 g sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon

Preparation:

1. Preparing the currants: Start by separating the currant berries from the stems. This can be a bit tedious, but it is essential for achieving quality jam. Once you have 1 kg of currants, wash them well under cold running water and make sure to remove all impurities and leaves.

2. Mixing with sugar: In a cooking pot, add the cleaned currants and mix them with 300 g of sugar. This step will help extract the natural juices from the fruit and create a delicious base for the jam.

3. Boiling the mixture: Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, remove it from the heat and strain it through a fine sieve to achieve a smooth consistency. Do not discard the skins and seeds, as they contain a lot of pectin, which is essential for thickening the jam.

4. Obtaining pectin: Place the skins and seeds in a clean cheesecloth, tying it up like a pouch. This step is crucial, as the pectin will help the jam set beautifully without the need for added gelling agents.

5. Final boiling: Put the mixture back on the heat, adding the remaining 200 g of sugar and the pouch with the skins and seeds. Do not be alarmed by the initial consistency, as it will thicken as it boils. Let it boil for about 40 minutes from the first boil.

6. Adding lemon juice: Towards the end, add the juice of one lemon. This will enhance the flavor of the jam and add a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness. It’s not necessary to stir continuously, but you can stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Testing for thickness: To check if the jam is ready, place a teaspoon of the mixture on a cold saucer (you can keep the saucer in the fridge beforehand) and let it sit for a few minutes. If it thickens, it’s a sign that your jam is perfect.

8. Bottling: Once the jam is ready, pour it into sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Cover the jars with plastic wrap and let them cool completely. This jam won’t have a very long shelf life, but it will surely finish quickly due to its delicious taste.

Serving suggestions:
Red currant jam pairs perfectly on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for cakes, muffins, or pancakes. You can also try serving it with Greek yogurt for a healthy and delicious breakfast.

Variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add a hint of vanilla or cinnamon to give your jam a unique flavor. You can also combine red currants with other berries, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create a jam with a complexity of flavors.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Red currant jam, due to its natural ingredients, contains significant amounts of vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. It is also a good source of antioxidants, which can protect the body from oxidative stress.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen currants? Yes, frozen currants can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain them before use.
- How can I store the jam longer? It’s important to sterilize the jars and lids before filling. Also, store the jam in a cool, dark place.
- What drinks pair well with red currant jam? A warm tea, white wine, or even prosecco can perfectly complement the tart flavor of the jam.

So, don’t hesitate to try this red currant jam recipe. It’s a delicacy that will delight your taste buds and bring a splash of color and flavor to your mornings!