Orange peel jam

Refined orange peel jam: a delicacy for fine tastes

Looking for a jam recipe that will impress and delight? I discovered that orange peel jam is a perfect choice. This recipe, inspired by L. Adamache, combines citrus flavors with a fine texture and an unmistakable aroma, becoming a true culinary indulgence. With a meticulous yet satisfying process, this jam is perfect for elaborate breakfasts or refined desserts. Let's see how you can prepare it step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 300 g

Ingredients:
- 1.5 liters of freshly squeezed orange juice
- 1.5 kg of sugar
- 2 medium apples (preferably fragrant apples like Golden or Granny Smith)
- 2 bourbon vanillas or 1 vanilla pod
- juice from 2 lemons

Preparing the orange peel jam

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the oranges very well with warm water. This step is essential to remove any pesticide residues or impurities from the peel. After washing the oranges, dry them with a clean towel.

2. Obtaining the juice: Cut each orange in half and squeeze them using a food processor or a manual juicer. You will need about 1.5 liters of fresh juice. The orange juice will not only give the jam a special flavor but will also help maintain a perfect texture.

3. Preparing the orange peels: Cut the peel of the oranges into thin slices, being careful to remove the white part, which is bitter. Then, cut the slices into matchstick shapes. This step may seem laborious, but once you get used to it, the process becomes quick and enjoyable.

4. Boiling the peels: In a pot, cover the peels with cold water and put them on the heat. Once the water starts to boil, let the peels boil for 3 minutes. Remove them from the water and discard the liquid. Rinse the peels under a stream of warm water to cleanse them of bitterness. Repeat this process, boiling the peels again for 4 minutes. Dry them with a kitchen towel.

5. Preparing the jam mixture: In another pot, mix the orange juice with the sugar and place the pot on low heat. Stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the halved apples, which will contribute the necessary pectin to thicken the jam. Add the vanilla (you can use either whole pods or vanilla extract) and let it simmer gently.

6. Adding the orange peels: Once the sugar is completely dissolved and the apples are added, slightly increase the heat and add the orange peels. Also, add the juice from the two lemons. Let the mixture boil for 1 hour and 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear jam.

7. Testing the consistency: After 1 hour and 30 minutes, it is time to check if the jam is ready. Place a plate in the freezer for a few minutes, then drop a few drops of jam on the plate. If the drops hold their shape and do not spread, the jam is perfectly cooked.

8. Finalizing and preserving: Remove the apple pieces from the jam, and you can serve them as they are or alongside rice pudding. Pour the hot jam into clean jars, seal them tightly with lids, and turn the jars upside down. Cover them with a blanket and leave them like that until the next day to create a vacuum.

Practical tips:
- Choose organic, wax-free oranges to avoid chemicals.
- You can experiment with different types of apples, depending on your preferences.
- Add a splash of orange liqueur or rum for an extra flavor boost.
- The jam can also be used as a filling for cakes or muffin tins.

Nutritional benefits:
- Oranges are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps strengthen the immune system.
- Apples provide fiber and essential vitamins, contributing to healthy digestion.
- Sugar, although consumed in moderation, can provide quick energy.

Delicious combinations:
- Serve this jam alongside goat cheese or feta cheese for a refined appetizer.
- You can add the jam to pancakes or on a slice of toasted bread for a delicious breakfast.

Frequently asked questions:
- Why is it important to remove the white part of the peels? It has a bitter taste that can affect the jam.
- Can I use another type of sugar? Yes, but make sure the chosen sugar dissolves well in the juice.
- How can I tell if the jam is ready? The plate test is a simple and effective way to check the consistency.

This orange peel jam is more than just a simple preparation - it is a cooking experience that combines tradition with refinement. Once you enjoy its intense aroma, you will surely want to repeat it. Enjoy!