Apricot and cherry jam

Apricot and cherry jam - an explosion of color and flavor

Who doesn't love the sweet-tart aroma of homemade fruit jam? Today, I invite you to discover a delicious recipe for apricot and cherry jam, combining two of summer's most beloved fruits. This recipe will not only delight your senses but also bring a piece of summer's sunshine into your jars.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 250g

A little story about jams

Jams have a fascinating history, prepared since ancient times to preserve fruits and enjoy their sweetness. In many cultures, jam is more than just a simple preparation; it is a symbol of care and the tradition of preserving harvests. Today, the apricot and cherry jam we will prepare is a modern reinterpretation of this tradition, bringing you not only a tasty delicacy but also a little joy in every jar.

Ingredients:

- 1 kg of apricots (ideally well-ripened)
- 1 kg of cherries (pitted)
- 1.2 kg of sugar (preferably crystalline sugar for a fine texture)
- Juice from ½ lemon (for a tangy taste and preservation)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the fruits: Start by washing the apricots and cherries well under cold running water. Make sure the fruits are clean to avoid any impurities in your jam. Cut the apricots into quarters and remove the pits. If using fresh cherries, ensure they are pitted, as the pits can ruin the texture of the jam.

2. Macerating the fruits: In a large bowl, mix the cut apricots with the cherries. Add half of the sugar (600g) and mix well. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and leave it in a cool place until the next day. This will allow the fruits to release their natural juice, intensifying the flavor of the jam.

3. Boiling the jam: The next day, transfer the fruit mixture to a thick-bottomed, non-stick pot. Here, everything will boil evenly without sticking to the bottom. Boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the apricots soften and break down. This process should take about 30 minutes.

4. Adding sugar and lemon: Once the apricots have melted, add the remaining sugar (600g) and lemon juice. This step will not only enhance the flavor, but the lemon also helps preserve the vibrant color of the jam. Continue boiling the mixture for 15-20 minutes, stirring frequently, until you achieve the desired consistency.

5. Consistency test: To check if the jam is ready, you can do the plate test. Put a drop of jam on a cold plate and let it cool for a few seconds. If the drop thickens and does not run, the jam is ready.

6. Preserving the jam: Once the jam has reached the perfect consistency, carefully pour it into sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars with lids and place them in a pot of boiling water. Steaming for 30 minutes will ensure better preservation. Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them.

Serving suggestions and combinations

Apricot and cherry jam is perfect for enjoying on a slice of toasted bread or fluffy pancakes. You can also add a teaspoon of jam to yogurt or cottage cheese for a healthy and tasty breakfast. Additionally, it pairs wonderfully with aged cheeses, providing a sweet-tart note.

Useful tips:

- Choose ripe but firm apricots and cherries. They will provide a more intense flavor and a more pleasant texture to the jam.
- If you desire a smoother jam, you can puree the fruits with an immersion blender before adding the sugar.
- You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for a more exotic taste.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can combine apricots with peaches or plums for a unique flavor.

2. How can I tell if the jam is well-cooked?
The plate consistency test is the safest way to check.

3. How long can the jam be stored?
If well sterilized, the jam can be stored in the pantry for 1-2 years.

4. Is apricot and cherry jam healthy?
Yes, homemade jam can be a good source of vitamins and antioxidants, but it should be consumed in moderation as it is high in sugars.

I wish you success in making this delicious jam! Each jar will be a memory of summer that you can enjoy all year round. Bon appétit!