Fragrant banana jam

Flavored Banana Jam: A Delicacy from Nature

Who doesn’t love the sweet and comforting aroma of bananas? Banana jam is a simple yet incredibly delicious recipe that transforms ripe fruits into a perfect dessert or topping for breakfast. This recipe has stood the test of time, bringing a touch of joy to every jar. Get ready to fall in love with the rich taste and texture!

Total preparation time: 35-40 minutes
Number of servings: 6 small jars

Ingredients:

- 1 kg ripe bananas (choose bananas with yellow skin that have a few brown spots for a sweeter taste)
- Juice from 1/2 lemon (approximately 30 ml)
- 250 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a more intense flavor)
- 1 teaspoon lemon salt
- 1 cinnamon stick (make sure it's fresh for maximum flavor)
- Rum essence (to taste, add a splash of magic)
- 100 ml water

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling the bananas and slicing them into pieces about 1 cm thick. Choose bananas that are ripe enough, as they will have a sweeter taste and break down more easily during cooking. The lemon will not only add a pleasant flavor but will also help preserve the color of the bananas.

Step 2: Creating the jam base
In a medium-sized pot, add the water, sugar, lemon juice, and cinnamon stick. Place the pot over medium heat and stir gently until the sugar completely dissolves. Wait until the mixture starts to boil. This is the perfect time to let yourself be carried away by the enticing aromas that begin to spread through the kitchen.

Step 3: Cooking the bananas
Once the mixture has started to boil, carefully add the banana slices to the pot. Let them boil for 15-20 minutes. You will notice how the liquid thickens and the bananas become soft, releasing their sweet juices. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. It’s important not to boil too much, as we want to keep some of the banana texture.

Step 4: Finalizing the jam
When the jam starts to thicken, add the lemon salt and rum essence. Stir well to combine the flavors. The lemon salt will enhance the sweet taste, and the rum essence will add a touch of warmth. Taste the mixture and adjust the flavors to your preference.

Step 5: Preserving
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, it’s time to transfer it to sterilized jars. Place the jars upside down to create a vacuum that will help preserve the jam. Allow them to cool completely.

Practical tips:

1. You can use bananas that have started to ripen; they will add extra sweetness to the recipe.
2. If you want a jam with a more exotic flavor, you can try adding a few drops of vanilla essence.
3. Don’t hesitate to experiment with other spices, such as ginger or nutmeg, to customize the jam.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This banana jam has a moderate calorie content, with about 150 calories per serving (per 100 g). Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin C, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. Moderate consumption of jam can provide an energy boost, making it perfect for spreading on toast or adding to yogurt.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen bananas?
It is not recommended, as their texture will change drastically during cooking.

2. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
The jam is ready when it thickens and sticks slightly to the spoon.

3. How can I use banana jam?
This jam is delicious on toast, pancakes, or as a topping for yogurt. It can also be used in pastry dishes or as a filling for cakes.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it’s time to put on your apron and enjoy the cooking process! Banana jam is not just a dessert, but also a way to bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. Savor every spoonful of this aromatic delicacy that brings a touch of nostalgia and joy to every jar. Food is an art, and banana jam is a masterpiece!