Beetroot Jam

Beetroot Jam - A Delicacy from Childhood Memories

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 jars (depending on size)

There are moments in life that connect us to our loved ones, and cooking is one of the most beautiful ways to keep these memories alive. Beetroot jam is a recipe I inherited from my grandmother, a simple yet flavorful and historical recipe. This jam not only adds a splash of color to the festive table but is also extremely healthy. Beetroot is known for its nutritional properties, rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and minerals such as iron and potassium.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg beetroot
- 1 kg sugar
- 1 l water
- 1 lemon (zest and pulp)

Preparing the ingredients:
1. Beetroot: Choose fresh, firm, and unblemished beetroots. It is ideal to select medium-sized beetroots, as they will have a better taste and texture. Wash the beetroot well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Once dried, peel the beetroot with a knife or a vegetable peeler. Cut the beetroot into small cubes or slices, depending on your preference; the smaller they are, the quicker they will soften in the syrup.

2. Lemon: Choose a fresh lemon with smooth, firm skin. Wash the lemon well, then cut it in half. From one half, you will use the finely chopped zest, and from the other half, the pulp, which will add a touch of acidity to the jam. The lemon zest will give a pleasant citrus aroma, balancing the sweetness of the sugar.

Preparation process:
1. Making the syrup: In a large pot, add 1 liter of water and 1 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar completely dissolves. Continue boiling until the syrup reaches a consistency similar to honey. It is important not to rush this step; a well-made syrup will enhance the flavor of the jam.

2. Adding the ingredients: Once the syrup is ready, add the finely chopped lemon zest and pulp. Let them boil together for about 5-10 minutes for the flavors to blend.

3. Incorporating the beetroot: Add the chopped beetroot to the sugar syrup. Gently stir to ensure all pieces of beetroot are covered by the syrup. Now, let the jam simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. It will take some time for the beetroot to soften and the syrup to thicken. Be patient - the aroma that will fill the kitchen will be worth every minute!

4. Checking the consistency: After about 60 minutes, check the consistency of the jam. You can do this by placing a few drops of jam on a cold plate; if it thickens, it is ready. If needed, let it boil for a few more minutes.

5. Bottling: Once the jam is ready, carefully pour it into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are still warm to avoid cracking. Seal the jars with lids and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. Leave them like this until they cool completely.

Useful tips:
- Personalizing the recipe: You can experiment with adding spices like cinnamon or ginger for an even more interesting flavor. You can also replace the lemon with orange for a fruitier jam.
- Serving: Beetroot jam is delicious on a slice of toasted bread, alongside cottage cheese, or as a filling for pies. It is also an excellent accompaniment to meat dishes, bringing a pleasant contrast of flavors.
- Storage: The jam can be kept in the pantry for up to a year, but once opened, it is best consumed within a few months when stored in the refrigerator.

Nutritional benefits:
Beetroot is recognized for its health benefits. It helps lower blood pressure, improves physical performance, and is a natural detoxifier. It also contains betaine, a powerful antioxidant that combats inflammation.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why doesn't my jam have the same color as my grandmother's? The color of the jam depends on the type of beetroot used and how it was prepared. Make sure to choose the best quality beetroot and respect the boiling time.
- Can I use canned beetroot? It is recommended to use fresh beetroot to achieve a superior quality jam, but in the absence of fresh, canned beetroot can be an alternative, although it will require adjustments to the cooking time.
- How do I know if the jam is well made? Check its consistency, and if it thickens on a cold plate, it is a sign that it is ready.

Beetroot jam is a recipe that blends tradition with innovation. By cooking it, you not only enjoy a delicious product but also unforgettable moments spent in the kitchen. So, put on your favorite apron, play some background music, and get started! Happy cooking, chef!