Melon jam

Melon jam is a delicacy that reminds us of warm summer days when the flavors of fresh fruits delight our senses. This simple and quick recipe, yet full of flavor, brings a touch of sunshine to every jar. It is perfect to be enjoyed on a slice of toasted bread, alongside yogurt, or even as a topping for various desserts. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious jam!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Waiting time: 12 hours (for marinating)
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 13 hours and 15 minutes
Servings: 6 jars of 400 g

Necessary ingredients:

- 3 kg peeled melon (choose ripe melons with sweet and fragrant flesh)
- 1.5 kg sugar (the sugar can be white or brown, depending on your preferences)
- Juice from 2 lemons (preferably freshly squeezed, to avoid preservatives)

Recipe overview

Melon jam is not just a recipe, but also a tradition that is passed down from generation to generation. The melon, with its juicy texture and sweet aroma, is ideal for turning into jam. It can be used in numerous ways, from fillings for cakes to toppings for pancakes or ice cream.

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the melon:
- Start by peeling the melon and removing the seeds. Cut it into cubes of about 1-2 cm. Make sure the melon is well-ripened, as the jam will be more flavorful.

2. Maceration:
- In a thick-bottomed pot, place a layer of melon cubes, followed by a layer of sugar. Repeat the process until all ingredients are used. The last layer should be sugar.
- Drizzle the mixture with fresh lemon juice. The acidity of the lemon will not only enhance the flavor of the jam but also help preserve it.
- Cover the pot with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit overnight in a cool place. This step is essential as it helps the sugar dissolve and the melon release its juice.

3. Boiling the jam:
- The next day, place the pot over medium to high heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The jam will start to boil and form a thick syrup. Let it boil for about 30-45 minutes until the syrup thickens.
- To check the consistency, you can take a spoonful of jam and pour it onto a cold plate. If it forms a film and stays on the plate, it is ready.

4. Bottling:
- Prepare the jars: sterilize them by boiling in water for 10 minutes or by washing in the dishwasher. This will ensure better preservation of the jam.
- Pour the hot jam into the jars, leaving a small space at the top. Cover immediately with lids.
- Wrap the jars in a thick blanket to cool slowly. This process helps form a vacuum, which will keep the jam fresh for a longer time.

5. Storage:
- Once the jars have cooled completely, store them in a cool, dark place. Melon jam can be kept this way for up to a year.

Serving suggestions

Melon jam is versatile and can be used in many ways:

- On toasted bread: Enjoy it on a slice of toasted bread alongside a fragrant tea.
- With yogurt: Add a few spoonfuls of jam on top of yogurt for a healthy breakfast or snack.
- In cakes: Use it as a filling for cakes or tarts, bringing a fresh and sweet taste.

Tips and variations

- Add spices: You can experiment with flavors by adding cinnamon or grated ginger during boiling for a more complex taste.
- Fruit combinations: Try mixing melon with other fruits, such as peaches or apricots, for a delicious mixed jam.
- Alternative sugar: If you want a healthier version, you can use coconut sugar or honey, but adjust the amount according to taste.

Nutritional benefits

Melon is rich in vitamins A and C, being a powerful antioxidant that supports the immune system. It also contains a significant amount of water, making it an excellent hydrator.

Frequently asked questions

- How long does melon jam last?
If stored correctly, the jam can last up to a year.

- Can I use another type of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar or healthier alternatives, but check the quantities as they may affect the consistency of the jam.

- How do I know the jam is ready?
Use the cold plate method to check the consistency. If it thickens and does not run, it is ready.

Conclusion

Making melon jam is a fulfilling activity that combines tradition with the natural flavors of this delicious fruit. With a little patience and love, you will create a jam that will bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So gather your ingredients and let’s transform a simple melon into an unforgettable delicacy! Happy cooking!