Apricot jam

Homemade Apricot Jam: The Perfect Sweetness of Summer

Who doesn't love the sweet and unmistakable aroma of apricot jam? This simple and delicious recipe is a true tribute to seasonal fruits, transforming juicy apricots into a flavor oasis for winter. Apricot jam is not just a delicacy, but also a way to preserve the taste of summer, so let's embark on this culinary journey!

Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 3 kg of ripe apricots
- 1.5 kg of sugar
- 1 lemon (juice and peel)

Recipe history
Apricot jam has been made for generations, becoming one of the most beloved methods of preserving fruit. This simple recipe has been passed down from family to family, each adding its own personal touch. Whether you use it on a slice of toast or as a filling for cakes or pancakes, apricot jam offers an explosion of flavor and nostalgia.

Step by step: How to make apricot jam

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the apricots well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are ripe but not too soft. A well-chosen apricot will provide a jam with an intense flavor. After washing, cut them in half and remove the pits.

2. Grinding the apricots
You can choose to use a blender to obtain a smooth apricot puree or, for a more rustic texture, you can pass them through a meat grinder. I prefer the blender option because the result is more uniform.

3. Adding lemon juice
Squeeze the juice from a fresh lemon. This will not only give a tangy note to the jam but also help preserve its color. If you want to add extra flavor, you can add the grated lemon peel.

4. Boiling the apricots
Place the apricot puree in a large pot and add the lemon juice. Bring to a boil, stirring constantly. This step is essential to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

5. Adding sugar
Once the mixture starts to boil, gradually add the sugar. Make sure to incorporate it well. Continue boiling the mixture, stirring constantly to avoid sugar crystals forming.

6. Testing the consistency
After about 1 hour of boiling, it's time to check the jam's consistency. Place a drop of jam on a cold plate. If the drop holds its shape and doesn't run, the jam is ready. If not, let it boil for a few more minutes.

7. Jarring the jam
Once the jam is ready, pour it hot into clean, sterilized jars. Seal the jars with lids and turn them upside down. This will create a vacuum, helping to preserve the jam long-term.

8. Cooling and storage
Allow the jars to cool completely, then store them in a cool, dark place. Apricot jam keeps excellently for several months, and its flavor becomes even more intense over time.

Practical tips for perfect apricot jam
- Use quality apricots, preferably from a local source. These will add an authentic taste to the jam.
- If you want a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but be careful, as sugar helps with preservation.
- You can experiment with additional flavors, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to customize the jam to your taste.

Nutritional benefits
Apricot jam is rich in vitamins, especially vitamins A and C, and is an excellent source of antioxidants. Additionally, apricots contain fiber that can aid digestion. However, keep in mind the high sugar content, so it's best to consume the jam in moderation.

Frequently asked questions

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

2. How do I know if the jam is well preserved?
Check the jars - if the lid is properly sealed and hasn't popped up, the jam is fine. If you notice mold or an unpleasant smell, throw it away.

3. What can I do with apricot jam?
You can use apricot jam on toast, as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or even in yogurt. It's delicious!

Recipes and combinations that pair well
Apricot jam pairs perfectly with fine cheeses, such as brie or camembert. It also goes wonderfully with cheesecake or as a filling for croissants. You can even use it as a base for a glaze sauce on meat, bringing a delicious sweet-sour contrast.

Personal notes
Every time I make apricot jam, the smell reminds me of summers spent at my grandparents' house. The project of making jam together was a tradition that brought the whole family around the table. Each jar of apricot jam is like a little memory, preserving the essence of those beautiful moments.

Conclusion
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! Homemade apricot jam is a simple and delicious way to bring the taste of summer to your table every day. I wish you great success in the kitchen and enjoy every spoonful of jam!