Nectarine and orange jam

Nectarine and Orange Jam

We bring you a delicious and fragrant recipe that will turn every morning into a celebration of flavors! Nectarine and orange jam is not only a wonderful way to preserve the essence of summer but also a way to experiment with seasonal fruits. With a smooth texture and vibrant aroma, this jam will add a touch of sunshine to every slice of toast or pancake. Let’s embark on this culinary journey together!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: About 6 jars of 250 g

Ingredients

- 1500 g nectarines (about 6-8 fruits, depending on size)
- 500 g oranges (about 3-4 large oranges)
- 700 g granulated sugar
- 2 packets of Gelfix Super 3:1 Dr.Oetker (ideal for quick gelification)
- 2 packets of Finesse Bourbon Vanilla Dr.Oetker (for an extra flavor boost)
- 4 tablespoons of orange liqueur (optional, but recommended for a refined taste)

Useful to know about ingredients

Nectarines and oranges are fruits rich in vitamins and antioxidants. Nectarines contain vitamin C, vitamin A, and fiber, while oranges are an excellent source of vitamin C, essential for the immune system. Adding orange liqueur not only enhances the flavor but also adds a touch of elegance to this jam.

Preparation techniques

1. Preparing the fruits:
- Wash the nectarines well under cold running water. If you prefer, you can peel the skin, but it contains many nutrients, so I recommend leaving it on. Cut the fruits into cubes, removing the pits.
- Peel the oranges and the white pith (which is bitter), then cut them into cubes. Weigh all the prepared fruits to ensure you have the correct amount.

2. Cooking the jam:
- In a large pot, add the chopped fruits, sugar, Gelfix, and vanilla packets. Mix well to combine the ingredients.
- Place the pot over low heat and stir constantly until the mixture starts to boil. This is when the aroma will fill the entire kitchen!
- Once it starts to boil, skim the foam from the surface with a spoon, then let it boil for 3 minutes.

3. Adding the liqueur:
- After the 3 minutes of boiling, add the orange liqueur and mix well. This step will intensify the flavors and add a sophisticated note to your jam.

4. Bottling:
- Prepare the jars by sterilizing them. You can do this by boiling them for 10 minutes or washing them in the dishwasher at a high temperature.
- Fill the jars with the hot jam, making sure to leave a little space at the top. Run your finger along the rim of the jar to ensure no air bubbles remain.
- Screw on the lids and turn the jars upside down for 5 minutes to create a vacuum, ensuring better preservation.

5. Storage:
- Once completely cooled, store the jars in the pantry. The nectarine and orange jam can be kept for several months, although it may not last that long considering how delicious it is!

Variations and useful tips

- Adding other fruits: If you want to experiment, you can add peaches, apricots, or even grapefruit. Make sure all added fruits are the same color to achieve a uniform jam.
- Smooth jam: If you prefer a smoother jam, you can use an immersion blender to puree the fruits before finishing the cooking. This will create a more delicate texture.
- Alternative sweetener: If you want to reduce the amount of sugar, you can use natural sweeteners, but keep in mind that the final result may vary, and the jam may not gel as well.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar or coconut sugar, but the jam will have a different flavor and may not gel as well.

2. How long does the jam last?
If the jars are properly sterilized and sealed, the jam can last up to a year. After opening, keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within about 2-3 weeks.

3. What can I do with nectarine and orange jam?
This jam is perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for cakes and tarts. You can also add a spoonful to your favorite yogurt or use it as a sauce for cheeses.

Serving suggestions

Serving nectarine and orange jam becomes a true pleasure when paired with fine cheeses like brie or camembert. Additionally, a cup of fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee perfectly complements this culinary experience.

Thus, we conclude this recipe with a personal note: each jar of jam you prepare is like a little piece of your summer that you can enjoy all year round. Happy cooking and don’t forget to savor every moment!