Mixed jam of apricots and sour cherries

Mixed apricot and cherry plum jam

I propose a delicious and aromatic recipe for mixed apricot and cherry plum jam, a true treat for the taste buds. This jam is perfect to enjoy on a slice of toasted bread, added to pancakes, or used in desserts. The combination of sweet apricots and slightly tart cherry plums offers a balanced flavor that will turn every morning into a celebration of aromas.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours
Number of servings: About 6 jars

Ingredients

- 1 kg ripe apricots (choose firm but ripe apricots for an intense flavor)
- 1 kg yellow and red cherry plums (choose cherry plums based on preference, but the yellow variety is sweeter)
- 500 g sugar (you can use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 lemon (the juice and grated peel will add a note of freshness)

A Bit of History

Mixed apricot and cherry plum jam is a traditional recipe that has been prepared in households over time as a way to preserve seasonal fruits. This method of preservation not only helps extend the shelf life of the fruits but also intensifies the flavors, creating a rich and characterful final product.

Step by Step

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the apricots and cherry plums under a stream of cold water. Cut the apricots in half, removing the pits. Split the cherry plums in half, making sure to remove the pits. Arrange them in a large pot in alternating layers: a layer of apricots, a layer of sugar, followed by a layer of cherry plums and another layer of sugar. It is important to add sugar between layers, as it will help extract the juice from the fruits.

2. Letting it macerate
Cover the pot with a lid or a clean towel and let it sit at room temperature overnight. This step is essential as it allows the fruits to release their juice and meld the flavors.

3. Boiling the jam
The next day, place the pot over low heat and let it simmer slowly for about 90 minutes. Stir constantly with a wooden spatula to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. It is important to maintain a steady temperature and not rush the process so that the fruits cook evenly.

4. Separating the pits
After the jam has boiled, use a slotted spoon to remove the cherry plums, leaving the apricots whole. Place the cherry plums in a sieve or a food mill to separate the pits and skins. This step will ensure a smooth texture for your jam.

5. Sterilizing the jars
Meanwhile, prepare the jars. Wash them well and sterilize them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15 minutes. It is essential that the jars are warm when you fill them with jam to prevent breaking.

6. Filling the jars
Once the jam is ready, pour it hot into the sterilized jars. Make sure to fill each jar to about 1 cm from the top. This will allow the jam to expand without putting pressure on the lid.

7. Sealing and capping
Place the jars in the preheated oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 30 minutes. This process will create a protective layer over the jam, ensuring it stays fresh for a long time. After the time is up, remove the jars from the oven and put on the lids.

8. Cooling and storing
Turn the jars upside down for 5-10 minutes, then place them in a blanket to cool slowly. This trick helps create a vacuum inside the jars, allowing for optimal preservation. Once they have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the fruits: Choose well-ripened but firm apricots and cherry plums. Overripe fruits can make the jam too runny.
- Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but keep in mind that sugar helps with preservation.
- Variations: You can add spices like cinnamon or ginger for a more exotic flavor. Also, try adding a splash of vanilla for an enticing aroma.
- Serving: Mixed apricot and cherry plum jam is wonderful on toasted bread, pancakes, or even as a filling for cakes. You can also use it as a sauce for ice cream or cheeses.

Nutritional Benefits

This jam is an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamins A and C, which contribute to skin health and the immune system. Additionally, apricots are rich in fiber, which aids digestion.

Frequently Asked Questions

- How long does the jam last?
If properly sterilized and stored correctly, the jam can last up to 1 year.

- Can I use frozen fruits?
Yes, you can use frozen fruits, but make sure to thaw and drain them before use to avoid excess water.

- How can I tell if the jam is good after opening?
If you notice a change in color, smell, or if mold appears, discard the jam.

Now that you have this delicious recipe at hand, it’s time to get to work! Preparing mixed apricot and cherry plum jam is not only a pleasant activity but also an excellent way to bring a touch of summer to every morning. Enjoy each jar of jam with love and joy!