Fruit jam

Fruit Marmalade – a sweet delicacy from childhood memories

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: approximately 5 jars of marmalade

Are you dreaming of a quick and simple dessert that transports you back to the old days when grandma lovingly prepared fruit marmalade? Today, I will reveal the perfect recipe to create a delicious marmalade from plums, apples, and pears, a combination that brings a touch of summer into each jar.

This marmalade recipe is ideal for preserving the flavors of fresh fruits and enjoying them throughout the year. The marmalade can be savored on toast, in cakes, or even as a filling for various desserts. With a little effort and a few simple ingredients, you can create a homemade product that will impress everyone.

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 kg plums (choose ripe and aromatic plums)
- 1.5 kg pears (preferably sweet and juicy pears)
- 1.5 kg apples (sour apples add a pleasant contrast)
- 500 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)

Ingredient details:

Plums are rich in fiber and antioxidants, while pears and apples add a fresh note and a pleasant texture. Sugar is essential for preserving the marmalade, but you can opt for healthier alternatives like honey or natural sweeteners.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the fruits:
Start by washing the plums well. Cut them in half and remove the pits. Then, wash the apples and pears, removing the cores. If you prefer, you can leave the skins on the fruits as they contain valuable nutrients.

2. Chopping the fruits:
Use a meat grinder, food processor, or grater to turn the fruits into small pieces. This will help release the juices and facilitate the cooking process.

3. Boiling:
Place all the chopped fruits in a large pot and add the sugar. Stir until the sugar is completely incorporated. Put the pot on medium heat and wait for it to start boiling. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking.

4. Thickening the marmalade:
The cooking process will take some time, but don’t get discouraged! The marmalade will gradually begin to thicken. It is important to stir frequently to avoid burning at the bottom of the pot.

5. Testing the consistency:
After about two hours, do a consistency test. Place a spoonful of marmalade on a cold plate and let it sit for a few minutes. If it cools and thickens, it is ready.

6. Packaging:
Prepare a dish lined with plastic wrap. Pour the hot marmalade into the dish, smoothing the surface. Cover with plastic wrap and let it cool to room temperature, then refrigerate overnight.

7. Unmolding the marmalade:
The next day, remove the marmalade from the dish, remove the plastic wrap, and admire its beauty! You can portion the marmalade into sterilized jars, keeping them in the refrigerator.

Serving suggestions and combinations:

Fruit marmalade pairs perfectly with fresh cheese or as a filling for pancakes and cakes. You can add a touch of originality with a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of cinnamon for a warm flavor. You can also combine the marmalade with a scoop of natural yogurt for a healthy and delicious breakfast.

Tips and variations:

- If you prefer a smoother marmalade, blend the mixture with an immersion blender before pouring it into the dish.
- Try adding a splash of vanilla or a pinch of nutmeg to intensify the flavors.
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or apricots, to create unique combinations.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long can marmalade be stored?
Marmalade can be stored in the refrigerator for several months. Make sure the jars are properly sterilized.

2. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, frozen fruits can be used, but they may require a longer cooking time to thicken.

3. What is the best way to use marmalade?
Marmalade is versatile! It can be used on toast, as a filling for cakes, or even in sauces for meat.

4. How sweet will the marmalade be?
The sweetness level depends on the amount of sugar used and the sweetness of the fruits. You can adjust the sugar to your taste.

Nutritional benefits:

Fruit marmalade is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a balanced diet. Additionally, consuming fruits can support a healthy immune system and good digestion.

In conclusion, making fruit marmalade is not only a pleasant activity but also an excellent way to preserve summer memories. So, put on your apron and start your cooking adventure! You will discover that nothing compares to the taste of homemade marmalade, full of love and patience.