Jam of apples, pears, and quinces

Apple, pear, and quince jam – a delicacy that evokes the flavors of childhood, of days spent in the garden, when fresh fruits were picked straight from the branches. This simple and delicious recipe is not only easy to make, but also offers an explosion of flavors that will transform any breakfast or dessert into an unforgettable experience.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars (3 jars of 400g and 1 jar of 800g)

Ingredients:
- 1 kg apples (preferably sweet and aromatic varieties)
- 1 kg pears (choose ripe but firm pears)
- 1 kg quinces (these add a distinct and fragrant flavor)
- 1.5 kg sugar (you can adjust the quantity according to your preferences)
- 250 ml water
- 1 teaspoon lemon salt or the juice of 1 lemon (to prevent the fruits from oxidizing)

Preparing the Jam:

1. Preparing the fruits:
Start by peeling the apples, pears, and quinces. Once you have completed this step, use a large grater to grate them. If you prefer a finer texture, you can use a blender, but my recommendation is to keep some of the rusticity of the fruits.

2. Initial mixing:
Place the grated fruits in a large pot. Add the sugar, lemon salt (or lemon juice), and water. Mix the ingredients well to ensure that the sugar dissolves evenly.

3. Boiling:
Place the pot on high heat and let the mixture come to a boil. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. After 30 minutes of boiling on high heat, reduce the temperature and continue cooking on low heat for another 30 minutes. This step will allow the jam to thicken and achieve a pleasant consistency.

4. Checking the consistency:
A simple method to check if the jam is ready is to place a teaspoon of the mixture on a cold plate. If it gels and does not run, it is time to stop. Remember, the jam will continue to thicken as it cools.

5. Preservation:
When the jam is ready, carefully pour it into sterilized jars. Seal the lids tightly and let them cool to room temperature. Make sure the jars are labeled so you know what they contain.

Helpful tips:
- Choosing fruits: Use apples and pears of different varieties to achieve a complex flavor. Quinces, with their strong and fragrant aroma, are essential in this recipe.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar or healthier alternatives like honey, but be careful to adjust the amount of liquid.
- Vegan option: This recipe is already vegan, but you can replace the lemon salt with fresh lemon juice if you prefer a more citrus flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Apples and pears are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Quinces are known for their anti-inflammatory and digestive properties. This jam can be enjoyed in moderation, adding a touch of health and flavor to your meals.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Of course! This recipe can be adapted with other seasonal fruits. Plums or apricots can add an interesting flavor.
- How can I keep the jam longer? Make sure the jars are well sterilized and stored in a cool, dark place.

Serving:
Apple, pear, and quince jam is delicious on a slice of toasted bread, alongside butter or cheese. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or crêpes. Additionally, it pairs perfectly with Greek yogurt for a healthy and energizing breakfast.

This jam is not just a simple recipe, but a way to bring a touch of joy into your life, evoking memories and unforgettable moments. Prepare it with love and enjoy every spoonful!