Beetroot jam

Beetroot Jam - An Unusual Delicacy

Beetroot jam is a surprising yet extremely delicious recipe that combines sweetness with a slightly earthy note characteristic of this vegetable. Although it may seem unusual, beetroot jam brings a unique flavor and vibrant color, making it a perfect accompaniment for cheeses, cakes, or even on a slice of toasted bread. It is a simple and quick recipe, ideal for trying something new in the kitchen.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 350 ml

Ingredients:

- 1 kg beetroot
- 1 kg sugar
- 750 ml water
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- Optional: 1-2 cinnamon sticks (for a fragrant taste)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the syrup:
Start by preparing the syrup. In a 4-liter pot, add 750 ml of water and 1 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir periodically until the sugar is completely dissolved. Allow the syrup to boil until it becomes slightly thickened. This can be checked by taking a teaspoon of syrup and letting it drip onto a plate. If it forms a drop, the syrup is ready.

2. Preparing the beetroot:
Meanwhile, peel the beetroot. Make sure to wash it well under cold running water to remove any impurities. Cut the beetroot into small cubes, about 1 cm. This will help with even and quick cooking.

3. Boiling the beetroot:
Once the syrup is ready, add the beetroot cubes to the pot. Let it boil on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 45-60 minutes. Check the syrup's consistency from time to time.

4. Adding flavors:
When the beetroot is cooked and the syrup has thickened slightly, add the juice of one lemon and the grated or thinly sliced zest. This step will add a touch of freshness to your jam. If you want to experiment, you can replace the lemon zest with 1-2 cinnamon sticks for a warmer, comforting flavor.

5. Bottling:
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency (a bit thicker), remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, pour the hot jam into sterilized jars. Make sure to seal them well so they can be stored for a longer period.

6. Cooling and storing:
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place. They can be kept for several months, but they are so delicious that they might not last that long!

Tips and useful advice:

- Choose fresh beetroot: Pick beetroot with healthy green leaves, and the roots should be firm, without spots or soft areas.
- Ideal jam: If you want a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar to 800 g.
- Cinnamon version: If you choose cinnamon, add it at the beginning of the boiling process to allow the flavors to develop.
- Using leftover syrup: You can use the leftover syrup to color whipped cream or various creams, giving them a unique color and flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Beetroot is a vegetable rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as essential minerals like iron and manganese. It helps improve blood circulation and detoxify the body. Moreover, beetroot jam can be a healthy alternative to other types of jams, offering both nutritional benefits and a delicious taste.

Frequently asked questions:

- What can I do if the jam is too runny?
If your jam is too runny, you can boil it for a few more minutes to thicken it. Check the consistency periodically.

- How can I use beetroot jam?
This jam is perfect for serving with goat cheese, in combinations with yogurt, or over cakes.

- How can I store the jam once opened?
After opening, keep the jam in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.

Serving suggestions:
Beetroot jam pairs perfectly with cheeses like feta or goat cheese, but it can also be used as a topping for pancakes or vanilla cakes. You can serve it alongside a cup of herbal tea or sweet white wine for an unforgettable culinary experience.

Experiment with this surprising recipe and enjoy the unique flavor of beetroot jam. Be sure to share your impressions with friends and family, as this is how the most beautiful memories are created around the table!