Sour cherries for pies - in a jar

Captivating recipe for sour cherries in a jar - The delight of summer in winter

Who doesn't love the fresh and sweet-sour taste of sour cherries? This aromatic fruit, packed with vitamins, is perfect not only for delicious cakes but also for preserving in jars, so we can enjoy it all year round. In this recipe, I will show you how to prepare sour cherries in a jar, adding a touch of flavor and a personal note that will turn each jar into a taste delight.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Preservation time: 24 hours (including waiting time)
Number of servings: 6 jars of 800g

Ingredients:
- 3 kg fresh sour cherries
- 1.5 kg sugar
- 1 packet of preservative (approximately 10 g)

A bit of history
Preserving fruits is an ancient practice used by generations to retain the flavor of the warm season. Sour cherries, with their distinctive aroma, have always been appreciated for their nutritional benefits as well as their versatility in making desserts. Today, I will show you how to transform them into a delight to enjoy with family and friends, even on cold winter days.

Step by step - Your guide to sour cherries in a jar

1. Preparing the sour cherries
Start by washing the sour cherries well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities. After washing, carefully remove the stems and let the cherries drain in a colander. This step is essential to avoid diluting the syrup.

2. Removing the pits
Use a special device to remove the pits. If you don't have one, you can use a small knife to remove them manually, but this method can be more time-consuming. The pits not only ruin the texture of the cherries but also the taste, so make sure to remove them all.

3. Mixing the cherries with sugar
Place the cherries in a large bowl and add the sugar. Mix well to ensure an even distribution of the sugar. This will extract the juice from the fruit, forming a delicious syrup. It's a perfect moment to think about possible variations - for example, you can add a little cinnamon or vanilla extract for an even more refined taste.

4. Letting it macerate
Cover the bowl with a clean towel or plastic wrap and let the cherries sit overnight. It's important to stir them occasionally to ensure that the sugar dissolves evenly. This process not only intensifies the flavor but also helps preserve the fruit.

5. Adding the preservative
The next day, add the packet of preservative to the cherry and sugar mixture. This will help maintain the freshness and vibrant color of the cherries for a long time. Make sure to mix well so that the preservative is evenly distributed.

6. Filling the jars
Prepare the sterilized jars, ensuring they are clean and dry. Fill each jar with cherries, leaving a little space at the top. Then, pour the syrup on top, filling to the brim. It’s important not to leave air bubbles in the jars, so you can use a spatula to help remove them.

7. Sealing the jars
Close the jars with the lids and make sure they are tightly sealed. This step is crucial to prevent air and bacteria from entering, ensuring that your cherries will stay fresh and delicious.

8. Storing the jars
Place the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. It is recommended to let them rest for a few weeks before consuming, to allow the flavors to develop.

Useful tips:
- Choose fresh, well-ripened cherries, but not too soft. These have the best flavor and keep better.
- If you want a sugar-free option, you can try using a natural sweetener, but the result may vary.
- During the summer, you can try adding a teaspoon of rum or cherry liqueur to the syrup for an intensified flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, but it’s important to thaw them beforehand and drain them well to avoid diluting the syrup.
2. How long do the cherries last in the jar?
If sealed properly, the cherries can last up to 1 year under optimal conditions.
3. What can I do with the preserved cherries?
You can use the cherries in cakes, tarts, or even as a topping for yogurts and ice creams.

Nutritional benefits:
Sour cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Additionally, regular consumption of sour cherries may help improve sleep due to their melatonin content.

Delicious combinations:
Serve the jarred cherries with vanilla ice cream or use them to make a delicious sauce that can be poured over pancakes or waffles. You can also try adding them to smoothies for a touch of freshness.

In conclusion, preparing sour cherries in a jar is a satisfying activity that will not only fill your pantry with goodies but will also bring back beautiful memories from the warm season. So put on your apron and enjoy every moment of this delicious process!