Mixed jam

Mixed Fruit Jam: A Homemade Delight

Total Time: 24 hours (including cooling time)
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Number of Servings: Approximately 6 jars of 400 g

In a world full of flavors, mixed fruit jam becomes a true treasure in any household's pantry. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines fresh fruits and aromatic spices, resulting in a delicious jam perfect for spreading on toast or using as an ingredient in various desserts. With each spoonful, you will enjoy an explosion of tastes, and preparing it will transform any ordinary day into a celebration of fruits.

Ingredients Needed:
- 600 g ripe apricots
- 400 g sour apples
- 1,200 g peaches
- 300 g plums
- 800 g sugar (approximately 330 g of sugar for each kilogram of fruit)
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 vanilla pod (or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract)
- 2 cloves
- 2 pieces of candied ginger (or 1/2 teaspoon of freshly grated ginger)
- A pinch of cinnamon
- A pinch of cardamom

Preparing the Mixed Jam

Step 1: Preparing the Fruits
Start by washing all the fruits thoroughly. Cut them into suitable pieces, making sure to remove the pits and skin where necessary. It is important to choose ripe but not overly soft fruits to achieve a pleasant texture in the jam.

Step 2: Layering the Fruits and Sugar
In a large bowl, place a layer of fruits followed by a layer of sugar. Continue alternating these layers until all ingredients are used. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This step is essential as it allows the fruits to release their natural juices, facilitating the cooking process.

Step 3: Cooking the Jam
The next day, transfer the fruit and sugar mixture into a large pot, adding all the spices: vanilla, cloves, ginger, cinnamon, and cardamom. Cook on low heat, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. It is important to be patient at this stage as slow cooking will intensify the flavors.

Step 4: Adding the Lemon
When the jam starts to boil, add the lemon juice. This is not just an ingredient that adds a tangy note but also a natural preservative, helping to keep the jam for a longer time.

Step 5: Checking the Consistency
Continue cooking the jam until it reaches the desired consistency. If you prefer a thicker jam, leave it on the heat longer. A simple way to check the consistency is to place a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate; if it does not run, it is ready.

Step 6: Jarring
Once the jam has reached the perfect consistency, remove it from heat and prepare the jars. Ensure they are well cleaned and sterilized. Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them tightly with the lids and place them in a thick blanket to cool slowly, which will help form a complete seal.

Serving Suggestions and Variations
Mixed fruit jam is delicious on toast, but it can also be used in various culinary dishes. I recommend trying it as a filling for pancakes or as a topping for your favorite yogurt. Another suggestion is to use it as a base for a dessert sauce by mixing it with a bit of melted butter and cinnamon - a true delight!

If you want to experiment, you can also add other fruits to the mix, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a touch of freshness. You can also adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences - more sugar will lead to a sweeter jam, while less will enhance the acidity of the fruits.

Nutritional Benefits
This mixed jam is not only tasty but also full of nutrients. Fruits are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants, and lemon adds vitamin C, which is beneficial for the immune system. Although it contains sugar, moderate consumption can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why is it important to layer fruits with sugar?
The sugar layer helps extract juices from the fruits, facilitating even cooking and a more intense flavor.

2. Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

3. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
Test it on a cold plate. If it does not run, it is ready for jarring.

You might also want to try...
Peach jam with mint or cherry jam with vanilla, which bring another dimension of flavor. These alternatives can be delicious and pair perfectly with a warm tea or fresh lemonade.

Transform each jar of mixed jam into a delicious story, full of flavors and memories. Making this jam is not just an activity but an experience that brings family and friends together, and the final result will fill you with satisfaction. So, get ready to discover the joy of cooking at home, with each spoonful of mixed jam!