Hawthorn jam

Rosehip Jam with Cognac - An Autumn Delicacy

Discover the magic of rosehip jam, a sweet and tangy treat that evokes childhood memories and the warmth of autumn days. This jam is not just a delicacy but also a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants, making it the perfect companion for breakfast or desserts. In this recipe, I will show you how to prepare a delicious rosehip jam with a splash of cognac, adding a touch of elegance while replacing preservatives. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 1 hour for extracting the juice + 2 hours for cooking the jam
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: 6 jars of 450 g

Ingredients

- 6 liters of rosehip juice (approximately 8-10 kg of fresh rosehips)
- 2 kg of sugar
- 1-2 tablespoons of cognac (as a preservative)

Necessary utensils

- Large pot for boiling
- Wooden spoon for mixing
- Glass jars with lids (preferably sterilized)
- Oven

Preparing the rosehip juice

1. Harvesting the rosehips: Start by picking ripe rosehips, preferably after the first frost, when they become sweeter. Make sure to choose healthy fruits, free from spots or mold.

2. Washing and preparing: Wash the rosehips under a stream of cold water to remove impurities. Do not peel them, as the skin contains many vitamins.

3. Boiling: Place the rosehips in a large pot and add enough water to cover them. Boil them over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes until they become soft.

4. Straining: After boiling, use a strainer or cheesecloth to separate the juice from the rosehip pulp. The liquid obtained is the rosehip juice, which will be the base of the jam.

Preparing the rosehip jam

1. Boiling the juice: Return the obtained juice to the pot and add the 2 kg of sugar. Stir constantly with a wooden spoon to ensure the sugar dissolves completely.

2. Cooking the jam: Simmer the mixture over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 2 hours. Be careful, it is important to stir often to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Check the consistency of the jam: it is ready when, if you place a spoonful on a cold plate, it holds its shape.

3. Preparing the jars: While the jam is cooking, wash the glass jars with warm water and soap, then rinse them well. Place them in the preheated oven at 100°C to sterilize. Leave them there until they become very hot.

4. Filling the jars: When the jam is ready, remove the hot jars from the oven and fill them with the hot rosehip jam, leaving a little space at the top of the jar.

5. Adding the cognac: Add 1-2 tablespoons of cognac on top of the jam in each jar. This will act as a natural preservative and provide a subtle, elegant flavor to your jam.

6. Sealing the jars: Seal the jars tightly and place them back in the hot oven, with the heat turned off. Leave them there until they cool completely to create a vacuum.

Useful tips

- Checking the consistency: If you are unsure whether the jam is ready, you can check the consistency using the plate method. Place a drop of jam on a cold plate and tilt it. If the jam does not run, it is ready for packaging.

- Citrus variation: For a more aromatic jam, you can add the zest of a lemon or an orange during the boiling process. The flavors combine wonderfully with the rosehips.

- Storage: Rosehip jam can be kept at room temperature for a few months, but it is recommended to consume it within a year to maintain its nutritional qualities.

Delicious combinations

This rosehip jam is perfect to serve alongside cottage cheese or aged cheese, on a slice of toasted bread, or as a filling in cakes and tarts. It can also be used as a topping for yogurt or puddings. A cup of herbal tea or black tea will pair wonderfully with the flavors of this jam.

Nutritional benefits

Rosehips are an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to strengthening the immune system and skin health. Additionally, rosehip jam can aid digestion and maintain heart health due to its flavonoid content.

Frequently asked questions

Can I use another type of alcohol instead of cognac?
Yes, you can also use rum or whiskey, but cognac provides a more subtle and refined taste.

Can I make the jam without sugar?
Technically, it is possible, but sugar helps not only with sweetness but also with preserving the jam. If you want a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners like honey, but keep in mind that this will change the consistency and taste of the jam.

How can I tell if the jam has spoiled?
If you notice signs of mold or an unpleasant smell, it is best not to consume the jam. Ensure that the jars are properly sterilized to prevent these issues.

How long can I keep the rosehip jam?
If stored under optimal conditions, the jam can last up to a year. Once opened, it is recommended to consume it within a few weeks.

Personal note

This rosehip jam carries a story, a memory from childhood when my grandmother used to make jams and preserves every autumn. Its sweet aroma and subtle hints of cognac will fill your home with warmth and nostalgia. Whether you enjoy it at breakfast or use it in desserts, rosehip jam will bring a touch of autumn magic to every jar.

Try this simple and quick rosehip jam recipe and enjoy the authentic taste of nature!