Apricot jam

Apricot Jam: A Summer Delight in a Jar

Who doesn't love to indulge in a fragrant apricot jam, made with love and patience? This simple and quick apricot jam recipe not only transforms seasonal fruits into a delicious dessert but also brings a touch of nostalgia to every jar. Get ready to discover how to achieve a perfect jam that will delight your taste buds!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Waiting time: 24 hours
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 25 hours
Number of servings: approximately 8 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 3 kg ripe but firm apricots
- 1.5 kg granulated sugar (can be adjusted to taste)
- 2 lemons (juice and zest)

Preparation steps:

1. Preparing the apricots: Start by washing the apricots thoroughly under cold running water. Choose apricots that are ripe but not overly soft to ensure a pleasant texture in the jam. After washing, remove the pits and cut the fruits in halves or quarters, depending on your preference.

2. Marinating the apricots: Place the apricot pieces in a large bowl and add the sugar. Mix well so that the sugar is evenly distributed over each piece of apricot. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate it, preferably overnight or for at least 12 hours. This step will help extract the juice from the apricots, giving the jam an intense flavor and a richer texture.

3. Cooking the jam: The next day, pour the apricot and sugar mixture into a large pot suitable for cooking. Place the pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the mixture begins to boil, you will notice foam forming. Be sure to skim off the foam with a spoon to achieve a clear and beautiful jam.

4. Adding the lemons: After about 30 minutes of cooking, add the juice of the two lemons and the grated zest (if you desire an extra flavor). The lemons not only add a pleasant taste but also help preserve the jam.

5. Testing the consistency: After the jam has boiled for an hour, it's time to check its consistency. Use a cold plate: place a teaspoon of jam on the plate and let it sit for a few seconds. Then, tilt the plate. If the jam does not run, it is ready to be jarred. If it is still too liquid, let it cook for a few more minutes.

6. Jarring: When the jam is ready, pour it hot into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are clean and well-dried. Seal the jars with lids and turn them upside down for about 5 minutes. This method helps create a vacuum that will keep the jam fresh for a longer time.

7. Cooling and storing: Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. The apricot jam can be enjoyed after a few days, but its flavor will intensify over time.

Practical tips:
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of apricot jam (approximately 20 g) contains about 50 calories. Apricots are rich in vitamin A, vitamin C, and antioxidants, contributing to skin health and the immune system.
- Variations: You can experiment by adding spices like cinnamon or vanilla to diversify the flavor of the jam. Additionally, you can combine apricots with other fruits like peaches or plums for a delicious mixed jam.
- Serving suggestions: Apricot jam pairs perfectly with Greek yogurt, on toast, or as a filling for pancakes. For an even more delightful experience, try using it as a topping for muffins or cakes.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown sugar or sweeteners? Yes, you can use brown sugar for a caramelized taste or natural sweeteners, but the result may vary in consistency and flavor.
- How can I sterilize the jars? You can sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by washing them in the dishwasher at a high temperature.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to get to work! By making this apricot jam, you'll not only delight your family and friends but also preserve the taste of summer for the chilly winter days. Enjoy every jar and cherish the lovely memories it brings!