Orange peel jam

Orange Peel Jam - A Citrusy Indulgence

Who can resist a jar of orange peel jam? This delicacy is not only an excellent way to use orange peels but also a recipe that brings a touch of sunshine to every morning. Orange peel jam is perfect for enjoying on a slice of toast, alongside fine cheese, or as a filling for pastries. Moreover, it is a simple and quick recipe, ideal for any cooking enthusiast!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: About 4 jars of 350 g

Ingredients:
- Peels from 2 kg of oranges (ideally, use organic, unprocessed oranges)
- 1.5 kg of sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 1.5 liters of water
- Half a lemon (unsweetened, for a unique taste)

Step 1: Preparing the orange peels
Start by washing the oranges thoroughly to remove any pesticides or impurities. After washing, slice the peel into thin strips, being careful to remove the white part, which can be bitter.

Then, place the peel slices in a large bowl of cold water. Cover and let them soak for 24 hours. It is essential to change the water every few hours to reduce the bitterness of the peels.

Step 2: Boiling the peels
After soaking, drain the peels and rinse them again. Then, in a large pot, add 1.5 liters of water and 1.5 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the syrup to a boil.

Step 3: Adding the peels and lemon
When the syrup starts to boil, add the orange peels and the half lemon sliced. Let everything simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. It is important not to let the jam boil too quickly, as it needs to thicken evenly.

Step 4: Checking the consistency
After about 40-60 minutes, the syrup should start to thicken. Try doing a consistency test - take a teaspoon of the jam and let it cool slightly on a plate. If the syrup sets, it’s ready! If not, let it cook for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Bottling
When the jam is ready, let it cool slightly before pouring it into clean, dry jars. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely at room temperature. Store the jam in a cool, dark place and enjoy it throughout the winter!

Practical tips:
- Use organic oranges to avoid chemicals in the peel.
- If you want a slightly spicier jam, you can add a few pieces of fresh ginger or a pinch of cinnamon to the syrup.
- This jam pairs perfectly with Greek yogurt or as a topping for pancakes.

Nutritional benefits:
Orange peels are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making them excellent for the immune system and digestive health. This jam can be a healthier alternative to some processed desserts, having a lower fat content.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other citrus fruits?
Yes, you can use lemon or grapefruit peels, but the taste will be different.
2. How long does the jam last?
If properly preserved, it can last up to a year.
3. How can I use this jam in other recipes?
Try using it as a filling for pastries or as a topping for ice cream!

Serving suggestions:
Serve orange peel jam alongside goat cheese on a crispy tartine, or add it to hot tea for a refreshing flavor.

Orange peel jam is not just a delicious treat but also a reminder of simpler times when every ingredient was used to its fullest. So, unleash your creativity and share this delight with your loved ones!