Melon jam

Melon Jam: A sweet and fresh delicacy for any time of the day

Melon jam is a refined choice for those who want to bring a touch of summer into their jars. This simple and delicious recipe will turn melon into a perfect condiment for breakfast, desserts, or even as a topping for cheeses. With a rich history, melon jam has been made for generations, often associated with moments of celebration and joy. Let's embark together on this step-by-step cooking process!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 4 jars

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of melon pulp (choose a ripe melon with an intense aroma)
- 500 g of sugar (you can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 1 large lemon (freshly squeezed juice will add a note of freshness)

Making Melon Jam

Step 1: Preparing the melon
Start by removing the seeds and skin from the melon. Use a sharp knife to cut the melon into small pieces, about 2-3 cm. This will help with even and quick cooking.

Tip: Choose a melon with firm, flavorful flesh, and a vibrant color. Sweeter melons will provide a more intense sweetness.

Step 2: Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the melon pieces with the sugar and lemon juice. Mix well so that the sugar is evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let it sit at room temperature for 3-4 hours. This is when the melon will release its juice, essential for a successful jam.

Step 3: Cooking the jam
After the resting time, transfer the mixture to a large pot. Place it over low heat and let it simmer for about an hour. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

Tip: Use a wooden spoon to stir, as it won't scratch the pot and is ideal for low-heat cooking.

Step 4: Removing the foam
During cooking, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a spoon to remove it so that the jam remains clear and attractive.

Step 5: Testing the jam
To check if the jam is ready, do the plate test. Drop a few drops of jam on a cold plate and tilt it. If the jam does not run, it is ready to be jarred. If it runs, let it cook for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Jarring the jam
Prepare sterilized jars, ensuring they are completely dry. Pour the hot jam into the jars, filling them to 1 cm from the top. Seal them tightly with the lids.

Serving suggestion: You can use melon jam as a topping for yogurt, cottage cheese, or even on slices of toast. It is also perfect for accompanying fine cheeses.

Nutritional values (per serving, approximately 100g):
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Protein: 0g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of melon?
Of course! You can experiment with watermelon or other seasonal fruits like peaches or apricots.

2. How can I preserve the jam for a longer time?
Make sure the jars are well sterilized. Store the jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the fridge.

3. What other recipes can I try with melon?
If you like melon, you can also try a fruit salad with mint or a refreshing smoothie with yogurt.

4. How can I make the jam less sweet?
You can reduce the sugar amount to 400g or add a bit of water to adjust the consistency.

Preparation variant:
If you want to add an exotic note, you can include some spices like ginger or cinnamon in the mixture, which will provide an interesting taste and an enticing aroma.

This melon jam recipe will not only bring joy to your table but also pleasant summer memories in every jar. Try it and enjoy a refined yet simple dessert that you can share with your loved ones!