Sweet apricot jam with lemon

Ripe Apricot Jam with Lemon

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars of 300g

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, we will focus on a classic yet always appreciated recipe: ripe apricot jam with lemon. This recipe is not only easy to make but also full of flavor, offering a perfect combination of sweet and tangy that pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread or as a secret ingredient in cakes. Let us be inspired by the aroma of ripe apricots and enjoy every step of this process!

Necessary ingredients:

- A deep plate full of ripe apricots (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 kg sugar
- 3 cups of water
- Juice from half a lemon
- 1 liter of clear lime water (for cleaning the apricots)

Preparing the apricots

The first step in this sweet adventure is choosing the apricots. Opt for beautiful fruits that are not overly ripe and of suitable size. Apricots like to be treated gently, so using a sharp knife to peel their skin is essential. Once peeled, soak them in lime water for 2-3 hours. This process helps maintain the intense color of the apricots and improves the texture of the jam.

After soaking in lime water, rinse them well in several cold waters to remove any trace of lime. Now, to remove the pits, hold the apricot in your left hand and use a sharp stick to push the pit out from the top. Be careful not to damage the fruit! Place them on a sieve to drain any excess water.

Making the jam

In a large pot, combine the sugar with the 3 cups of water and bring the mixture to a boil. When the sugar has completely dissolved, carefully add the cleaned and drained apricots. At this point, let them boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove the pot from the heat and let the fruit sit aside for about a quarter of an hour. This interval allows the apricots to release their juice, transforming into a flavorful mixture.

Returning to the heat, let the mixture boil until the jam thickens to your desired consistency. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear and attractive jam. In the last minutes of cooking, add vanilla essence, lemon juice, and a few whole cleaned apricot pits for an extra flavor boost.

Serving and storing

Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, pour it hot into sterilized jars. Make sure to seal them well to prevent oxidation. Ripe apricot jam with lemon can be used as a filling for cakes, tarts, or even as a topping for your favorite yogurt. It also pairs wonderfully with fine cheeses or on a slice of toasted bread spread with butter.

Useful tips

- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the jam from sticking and burning.
- If you prefer a more tart jam, you can add more lemon juice.
- For a special flavor, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a vanilla pod during cooking.

Nutritional benefits

Apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to improved digestion and skin health. Consuming apricot jam in moderation can provide an energy boost, but it is essential to limit portions due to the high sugar content.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen apricots?
Yes, you can use frozen apricots, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. How can I tell when the jam is ready?
A simple method is to put a drop of jam on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and does not run, it is ready.

3. Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, you can experiment with brown sugar for a deeper flavor, but keep in mind that the jam will have a darker color.

Now that you have all the necessary steps and useful tips, you are ready to transform your kitchen into a place full of inviting aromas with this ripe apricot jam with lemon recipe! Don't forget to enjoy every moment and share the final result with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!