Fragrant apricot jam

Fragrant Apricot Jam

Cooking is an art, and preserving fruits is a tradition that dates back to ancient times when people sought ways to keep the aroma and taste of summer for the colder months. Fragrant apricot jam is a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy the sweetness of these delicious fruits at any time of the year. This simple yet refined recipe will bring an inviting aroma and vibrant color to your kitchen, transforming you into a true jam master.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1.5 - 2 hours
Total time: 1.5 - 2 hours 20 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 3-4 small jars

Ingredients:
- 1250 g apricots (pitted, equivalent to almost 2 kg with pits)
- 400 g sugar
- juice from 1/2 lemon

Preparation:
1. Preparing the apricots: Start by washing the apricots thoroughly under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, cut them in half and remove the pits. Don’t throw them away, as you can use them for another jam recipe or to make a delicious liqueur.

2. Mixing with sugar: Place the cut apricots in a large pot that has been sterilized by blanching. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the apricots. This step is essential, as the sugar will draw out the juice from the fruit, contributing to a better texture for the jam. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture sit in a cool place overnight. This process not only enhances the flavor but also helps to form a liquid base for the jam.

3. Cooking the jam: The next day, place the pot over medium heat and start stirring constantly. This is a crucial step; the mixture should simmer gently but not stick to the bottom of the pot, so remember to stir!

4. Adding lemon juice: Near the end of the cooking time, add the lemon juice. This will not only add a fresh taste but will also help preserve the jam for the long term.

5. Checking the consistency: The jam should simmer for between 1.5 and 2 hours, depending on how juicy the apricots are. A trick to check if it's ready is to put a drop of jam on a cold plate and tilt the plate; if the jam doesn’t run, it’s done.

6. Sterilizing the jars: While the jam is cooking, prepare the jars. Wash them well and sterilize them. A simple method is to place them in the oven at 100°C for 15 minutes.

7. Filling the jars: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars. It’s important to leave a small space at the top to allow for expansion during the cooling process.

8. Sealing: Place the lids on the jars and tighten them well. Then, you can put them in the oven at 100°C for 15 minutes to ensure they are completely sealed.

9. Cooling: Place the jars in a warm spot (like under a blanket) for about 30 minutes to cool gradually. Once they are completely cool, label them with the date and contents, and store them in a dark, cool place.

Serving suggestions:
Fragrant apricot jam is perfect for spreading on toast or pancakes. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or muffins, or even as an ingredient for sweet sauces in savory dishes. It’s also delicious alongside fine cheeses, creating a perfect contrast between sweet and savory.

Possible variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add additional flavors, such as a pinch of cinnamon or a few vanilla seeds for a more sophisticated taste. You can also combine apricots with peaches or plums to create an interesting and complex composition.

Nutritional benefits:
Apricots are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to skin health and the immune system. They also contain antioxidants that help combat oxidative stress. It’s important to use ripe apricots, as they have a higher content of natural sugars, allowing you to reduce the amount of added sugar.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I avoid burning the jam during cooking?
- Make sure to stir the mixture constantly and not to keep the heat too high.

2. What can I do with the apricot pits?
- The pits can be used to make another type of jam or to prepare flavored liqueurs.

3. How long does apricot jam last?
- If properly sealed, the jam can last up to a year in a cool, dark place.

By making this fragrant apricot jam, you not only enjoy a sweet delight but also the satisfaction of creating something special with your own hands. Enjoy every spoonful and share this treat with your loved ones!