Apricot jam for Alex

Apricot Jam for Alex – A Delight That Will Tantalize Your Taste Buds

Apricot jam is a classic and refined recipe that brings a touch of sunshine to the table, even on the grayest winter days. This simple and quick recipe will transform your fresh apricots into an unforgettable treat, ready to be savored on a slice of toast or as an accompaniment to various desserts.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 day (including waiting time)
Number of servings: approximately 8 jars of 400g

Ingredients:

- 1 kg of apricots (peeled)
- 600 g of sugar (for each kilogram of peeled apricots)
- Water (for blanching and sterilization)

A bit of history:

Apricot jam has deep roots in culinary traditions, having been prepared by generations. Apricots, these juicy and fragrant fruits, are appreciated not only for their delicious taste but also for the nutritional benefits they provide. Rich in vitamins A and C, apricots are excellent for skin health and the immune system.

Step-by-step guide to making apricot jam:

1. Preparing the apricots: Start by washing the apricots well under cold running water. Choose ripe but firm fruits to achieve perfect jam.

2. Blanching the apricots: Bring water to a boil in a large pot. When the water starts to boil, add the apricots for 1-2 minutes. This step will help remove the skin.

3. Peeling the apricots: Remove the apricots from the water and let them cool. The skin will come off easily. Gently remove the pits, being careful not to damage the flesh.

4. Preparing the mixture: Weigh the peeled apricot flesh and add 600 g of sugar for each kilogram of fruit. Mix well to incorporate the sugar and let the mixture sit until the next day. It’s important to stir occasionally to help the sugar dissolve.

5. Cooking the jam: The next day, place the mixture over medium heat and let it boil for about 40 minutes. During this time, skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a wooden spoon. This will help achieve a clear and smooth jam.

6. Sterilizing the jars: Prepare the jars for storage! Fill a pot with water and place towels at the bottom. Arrange the jars in the pot, add water, and let them boil for 15 minutes to sterilize.

7. Packing the jam: When the jam is ready, transfer it hot into the jars. Make sure the jars are well sealed and capped.

8. Cooling and storing: Place the jars in a pot, cover them with a towel, and let them cool. Once cooled, wipe the jars with a clean cloth and store them in the pantry.

Useful tips:

- Choosing the apricots: Select quality apricots, but not overly ripe. Overripe fruits can lead to a jam that is too soft.
- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar depending on how sweet the apricots are. If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar by 100-200 g.
- Flavoring: Add a splash of vanilla or a few cinnamon sticks during cooking for an extra hint of flavor.

Frequently asked questions:

- How long can apricot jam be stored? Once prepared and stored correctly, the jam can last for 1-2 years.
- How can I check if the jam is ready? You can do a simple test: place a drop of jam on a cold plate. If it solidifies and doesn’t spread, it’s ready.

Serving and delicious combinations:

Apricot jam pairs perfectly with natural yogurt, enhancing its flavor. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or pies. Try serving it alongside fresh cheese or as a topping for fluffy pancakes.

Calories and nutritional benefits:

A serving of apricot jam (approximately 100g) contains about 250 calories. It is an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Moderate consumption of fruit jam can provide you with a boost of energy and good mood.

Possible variations:

You can try adding other fruits, such as peaches or plums, to create an interesting combination of flavors. Additionally, infusing with herbs like rosemary or mint can add a fresh and surprising note to your jam.

Now that you have all this information and the steps clearly explained, you are ready to create a delicious apricot jam that will delight not only your family but also your friends. Don’t forget to enjoy every step of the process and experiment with new flavors and combinations. Enjoy your meal!