Mirabelle jam

Plum Jam: A Childhood Delicacy

Who doesn't fondly remember the flavors of childhood, when grandmothers prepared the most delicious jams and preserves? Plum jam is such a recipe that brings back memories of moments spent in the kitchen, where every ingredient was full of love. With a slightly sour taste and a perfect texture, this jam is not just a delicacy but also a rich source of vitamin C. I invite you to discover together how to make this plum jam step by step, to bring a part of that magic into your home.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 5 jars

Necessary Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg ripe red plums (but not too soft)
- 1 kg sugar
- Juice from 1 lemon

Utensils and Equipment:
- A large pot (ideally one dedicated to jams)
- Cheesecloth or a lid for covering
- Sterilized glass jars (5-6 jars of 300 g are sufficient)
- A sieve for separating the pits
- A large pot for sterilizing the jars

Brief History:
Plums are spring fruits that have been used for centuries in making jams, having a distinct taste and a slightly tart aroma. In the past, these fruits were considered a treasure of the summer season, and plum jam was often served with cheese or used as a filling for cakes. Today, it is appreciated not only for its taste but also for the nutritional benefits it offers.

Step by Step for Making Plum Jam:

1. Preparing the Plums:
Start by selecting the plums. Choose healthy fruits without spots or bruises. Wash them well in several waters to remove any impurities. This step is essential to ensure a clean and tasty jam.

2. Layering the Ingredients:
In a large pot, place a layer of plums, followed by a layer of sugar. Continue to alternate these layers until the ingredients are finished, making sure that the last layer is sugar. Cover the pot with cheesecloth or a lid and let it sit overnight. This stage will allow the plums to release their juice, essential for obtaining a perfect jam.

3. Preparing the Jars:
The next day, ensure that the jars are well washed, rinsed, and sterilized. You can do this by scalding them with boiling water. This will prevent the development of bacteria and help preserve the jam for a longer period.

4. Cooking the Jam:
Place the pot over low heat. It is important to stir constantly to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. When the mixture has reduced to half its quantity, strain it through a sieve to separate the pits. This is a crucial step for achieving a fine and pleasant texture.

5. Finalizing the Mixture:
Put the obtained paste back on the heat for 20-35 minutes, depending on how thick you want the jam to be. Towards the end, add the lemon juice, which not only enhances the flavor but also helps preserve the jam. If you prefer a consistency more like marmalade, leave it on the heat longer.

6. Bottling the Jam:
When the jam is ready, make sure the jars are still warm. Pour the slightly cooled jam into the jars, leaving a space of 2-3 fingers at the top. Tighten the lids well and cover the jars with blankets to cool gradually. This will help maintain the flavors and allow for better preservation.

7. Sterilizing the Jars (optional):
If you want the jam to last longer, you can choose to sterilize the jars. Place some newspapers or cloths at the bottom of a large pot, fill it with warm water up to just below the jar lids, making sure the water does not exceed the lid. Place the jars in the pot, ensuring they do not touch each other, and boil for 30 minutes, or longer if you want better sterilization.

Serving and Combinations:
Plum jam is excellent for breakfast, on toast, or as a filling for cakes, donuts, and pastries. It can also be served with cheese or yogurt for a delicious contrast between sweet and sour. Additionally, you can use this jam as an ingredient for sauces or glazes in meat dishes.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use green plums?
Yes, but the jam will have a more sour taste. Ripe plums are ideal for a sweeter taste and a more pleasant texture.

- How long can plum jam be stored?
If properly sterilized, the jam can be kept for up to a year. Without sterilization, it is best consumed within a few months.

Nutritional Benefits:
Plum jam is rich in vitamin C, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, plums contain antioxidants that contribute to skin health and prevent premature aging.

Variations and Tips:
- You can add spices such as cinnamon or cloves to give the jam a more complex flavor.
- Experiment with adding fruits such as apples or pears to diversify the taste and texture of the jam.

This plum jam recipe is not just a way to preserve the flavors of summer but also an opportunity to create precious memories in your kitchen. So, get your hands busy and let the aroma of plums fill your home with nostalgia and joy!