Cherry jam

Cherry jam is a true treasure of summer, a classic recipe that brings to mind warm days spent in the garden, enjoying the fresh aromas of seasonal fruits. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for transforming sweet cherries into a delicacy to enjoy on bread, alongside tea, or even as a filling for cakes. Let's discover together how you can make this delicious jam, step by step!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 5 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of fresh cherries (choose well-ripened cherries, preferably without defects)
- 500 g sugar (you can use white sugar or raw sugar for a more complex flavor)
- 1 lemon (which will add a note of freshness and help preserve the jam)

A bit of history:
Cherry jam has a long tradition, being one of the first jams made in households. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, with each family having its own secrets to achieving the perfect jam. Making jam is not only a method of preserving fruit but also a way to gather the family around a table full of flavors and memories.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cherries:
Start by washing the cherries under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove all impurities. After washing, use a special tool to remove the pits or a simple toothpick to take out the stems. It is important to be careful at this stage, as the pits can affect the texture and final taste of the jam.

2. Macerating the fruit:
Place the cleaned cherries in a large bowl and sprinkle the sugar over them. Gently mix to coat the cherries with sugar. Let the mixture sit for 2-3 hours. During this time, the cherries will release a considerable amount of juice, which will contribute to obtaining a more aromatic jam.

3. Boiling the juice:
After the cherries have sat with the sugar, transfer the mixture to a large pot. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Let it boil for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice that the sugar will dissolve completely, and the juice will begin to thicken. A simple method to check the consistency is to place a teaspoon of the juice on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and does not run, it's time to add the cherries.

4. Adding the cherries:
Once the juice has reached the desired consistency, add the cherries to the pot. Let everything boil together for another 10-15 minutes. The cherries will heat up quickly and will blend harmoniously with the sweet syrup.

5. Including the lemon:
Cut the lemon into slices or small pieces. Add it to the pot with the cherries and let everything boil for another 5-10 minutes. The lemon will not only add a note of acidity but will also help preserve the jam due to its citric acid content.

6. Preserving the jam:
Once the jam is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. While it cools, prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and sterilized. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them tightly with the lids.

7. Sterilizing:
Place the filled jars in a large pot of water and boil them for 20-30 minutes. This is an excellent method to ensure a long-lasting preservation of your cherry jam.

Useful tips:
- You can add a pinch of cloves or a cinnamon stick during boiling for an even richer aroma.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
- Use frozen cherries if you don't have access to fresh cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use alternative sugar? Yes, you can try using natural sweeteners, but the final result may vary.
- How long can the jam be stored? If properly sterilized, the jam can last up to a year in the pantry.
- How can I use cherry jam? It's excellent on toast, as a filling for pancakes or cakes, and even as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Perfect pairings:
Cherry jam pairs wonderfully with fresh cottage cheese or goat cheese. You can serve this delicacy alongside a fragrant black tea or even with a light white wine that complements the jam's flavors. Also, don't hesitate to explore various cake or tart recipes that include this jam, bringing a touch of summer to every bite.

In conclusion, cherry jam is not just a quick dessert but also a way to preserve summer memories in jars. With each spoonful, you will feel the joy of authentic taste and the flavor of seasonal fruits, and your family and friends will surely enjoy this delicacy. So take your time, enjoy the process, and let yourself be carried away by the intense aromas of cherries!