Acacia flower jam

Acacia flower jam – a spring delicacy

Acacia flower jam is a refined recipe that evokes memories of spring and the joy of fragrant flowers. Known for its delicate aroma and sweet-sour taste, this jam not only sweetens your mornings but also brings a touch of cheerfulness to every jar. I invite you to discover with me this simple yet charming process to create an amazing jam that will delight family and friends.

Preparation time: 60 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 85 minutes
Number of servings: 5 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 2 liters of water
- 2 kg of sugar
- 1 kg of fresh acacia flowers
- Juice from 2 lemons

A bit of history

Acacia flower jam has a long history, being a tradition in many cultures where acacia flowers are often used not only for their flavor but also for their nutritional benefits. These flowers are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties, making them an excellent choice to add a touch of health to your dishes. By making this jam, you will not only delight your taste buds but also preserve a bit of spring's beauty for the colder days.

Step by step: How to make acacia flower jam

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by gathering all the necessary ingredients. Make sure the acacia flowers are fresh and that you pick them from an unpolluted area. It is important to avoid flowers that have been exposed to pesticides or other chemicals. Only pick open and fragrant flowers to ensure the jam will have an intense flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the syrup

In a large pot, add the 2 liters of water and 2 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until the sugar completely dissolves. Once it starts boiling, let the mixture boil for 60 minutes. At this stage, the syrup will begin to thicken and gain a viscous consistency.

Practical tips: You can use brown sugar for a jam with a more caramelized taste. Also, if you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar by 200-300 grams, but this may affect the final texture.

Step 3: Prepare the acacia flowers

Meanwhile, remove the flowers from the clusters, being careful not to include the hard stems. Place the flowers in a bowl of cold water and let them soak for 10-15 minutes. This will help remove any insects or impurities. After soaking, rinse the flowers in several clean waters to ensure they are clean.

Step 4: Combine the ingredients

After the syrup has boiled for 60 minutes, add the acacia flowers to the pot and stir gently. Cover the pot and let it simmer on low heat for 25 minutes. You will notice how the flowers release their aroma, and the syrup begins to thicken, achieving a consistency similar to that of gelatin.

Step 5: Add the lemon juice

Once the mixture has boiled, squeeze the juice from the two lemons and add it to the pot. Lemon not only enhances the flavor but also helps preserve the jam due to its acidity. Let it cook for another 5 minutes to integrate the flavors.

Step 6: Jar the jam

Meanwhile, prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and sterilized. You can do this either by boiling them or using the oven. Once the jam is ready, carefully pour it into the jars, filling them to the rim. Seal the jars with lids.

Step 7: The preservation process

To seal the jam, you can use the oven method. Place the jars in a tray and put them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 20 minutes. This will help maintain the freshness and flavors of the jam for a longer period.

Serving and variations

Serving acacia flower jam is just as delightful as making it. You can use it as a filling for cakes, croissants, or pancakes. It is also delicious on a slice of toasted bread, alongside butter or fresh cheese. If you wish to experiment, you can add a few rose petals for an extra floral note.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I check if the jam is ready?
A simple method is to pour a drop of jam on a cold plate. If it does not spread and retains its shape, it is ready.

2. Can I use dried acacia flowers?
Although fresh flowers are recommended for optimal taste, you can also use dried flowers. In this case, use a smaller amount since the flavor is more concentrated.

3. How long does the jam last?
If properly preserved, the jam can be kept for a year in the pantry. Once opened, it is recommended to consume it within a few weeks and store it in the refrigerator.

Nutritional benefits

Acacia flower jam is not only delicious but also beneficial. Acacia flowers have antioxidant properties, helping to strengthen the immune system. Additionally, the natural sugar in the jam provides a quick source of energy, but it is important to consume it in moderation.

Conclusion

Making acacia flower jam is a pleasant experience that combines tradition with innovation. You can enjoy the flavors of spring even in the middle of winter, and each jar will remind you of moments spent in nature. I encourage you to try this simple recipe and share the result with your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!