Green Plantain Jam

Green plum jam - an unusual and flavorful delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 4 jars of 250g

Green plum jam, also known as 'prunisoare', is a traditional recipe that surprises with its unique taste and delicate texture. The elongated green plums are an excellent choice for creating a refined jam that can be enjoyed on a slice of toast or as a filling for desserts. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a touch of originality to your kitchen.

The history of green plum jam goes back in time, with deep roots in the culinary traditions of various cultures. The preparation of jam has become an art, and recipes have been passed down from generation to generation, each adding a personal touch. Let us be carried away by this tradition and discover together how to make the perfect green plum jam!

Necessary ingredients:
- 40-45 small green plums (prunisoare)
- 1 kg sugar
- 750 ml water
- Zest of one lemon and one orange (cut into thin slices)
- Walnut kernel (approximately 100g)
- Juice of one lemon

Preparation of green plum jam

Step 1: Preparing the plums
Start by washing the green plums well under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to remove impurities. Then, cut off the top of the plums where the stem attaches. Using a knitting needle or a larger hairpin, carefully remove the pits from inside. Normally, each plum will have 2-3 openings through which you can access the pits.

Step 2: Blanching the plums
After you have prepared the plums, place them in a pot of boiling water. Blanch them for 3-4 minutes. This step helps soften the skin and develop flavors. After blanching, drain the water and shake each plum to remove excess water.

Step 3: Flavoring
Stuff each plum with the slices of lemon and orange zest, as well as the walnut kernel. These ingredients will not only add a delicious taste to the jam but will also provide an interesting contrast of textures.

Step 4: Preparing the syrup
In another pot, prepare the syrup from 1 kg of sugar and 750 ml of water. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly. I suggest using white sugar to achieve a clear and shiny syrup. When the syrup begins to boil and thickens, it’s time to add the previously prepared plums.

Step 5: Boiling the jam
Allow the plums to boil in the syrup for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The jam is ready when the syrup becomes viscous. A simple trick to check the syrup's consistency is to put a little on your thumb and try to stretch it between your thumb and forefinger. If it holds, it’s time to add the lemon juice to give a slightly tangy flavor and help preserve the green color of the plums.

Step 6: Finalizing
After adding the lemon juice, let the jam boil for another 2-3 minutes. Then, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly before pouring it into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are completely clean and dry to prevent mold formation.

Useful tips:
- If you want the plums to maintain their vibrant green color, you can add 2 grains of copper sulfate to the blanching water. This ingredient is used in agriculture but has an interesting effect on the color of the fruits. Make sure to wash them well before use.
- Elongated plums are preferred due to their lower pit content, making them easier to prepare.
- Green plum jam pairs excellently with cheeses, yogurt, or can be used as a filling for cakes and tarts.

Nutritional values (per serving, approximately 100g):
- Calories: 250
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 63g
- Protein: 0g
- Fiber: 1g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use larger plums?
Yes, but I recommend small plums for a better texture and fewer pits.

2. How can I preserve the jam for a longer period?
Make sure the jars are properly sterilized and keep them in a cool, dark place.

3. What other fruits can I combine with plums in the jam?
You can also add blackberries, raspberries, or sour cherries to create a mixed jam with varied flavors.

4. What drinks pair well with this jam?
Green plum jam pairs perfectly with flavored teas, lemonade, or even sweet wine.

I hope this green plum jam recipe inspires you to delight your family and friends with an unusual delicacy. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is a story waiting to be told. Enjoy!