Pear jam

Pear Jam: An Autumn Delicacy

Who doesn't love the sweet and fragrant aroma of pear jam? This recipe is not only a wonderful way to preserve fruit, but also a way to evoke warm memories and special moments spent with loved ones. Pear jam is a superb choice to accompany breakfast, sweeten desserts, or add a special touch to cheeses. Let's embark together on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60-90 minutes (depending on the type of pears)
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars

Necessary ingredients:

- 7 bowls of sliced pears (approximately 2.5 kg of pears)
- 4 bowls of grated sugar (using the same bowl for measurement)
- Juice from half a lemon, sliced thinly

Preparing the pear jam:

1. Preparing the jars: Start by preparing the jars that will hold this delicacy. Wash them with hot water and let them drain upside down on a clean towel. This step is essential to avoid contaminating the jam.

2. Preparing the pears: Choose ripe but firm pears. It is important that they are fresh to obtain a quality jam. Wash them well under running water, then peel them. Cut the pears into thin slices lengthwise, being careful to remove the seeds.

3. Mixing with sugar: Place the pear slices in a cast-iron pot or a thick-bottomed pot. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over them and mix well with a spatula. Cover the pot and let them sit in the refrigerator for about 2 hours. During this time, stir occasionally to ensure the pears are evenly coated with sugar.

4. Boiling the jam: After 2 hours, place the pot over medium heat. Stir continuously to prevent the pears from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Let the jam boil until the liquid reduces significantly. A useful technique is to take a spoonful of jam and place it on a small plate. Let it cool slightly, then check the consistency. If it is too runny, let it cook longer.

5. Adding the lemon: When the jam reaches the desired consistency, add the lemon slices. They not only add a subtle flavor but also help preserve the jam. Mix well and let it boil for 2-3 minutes.

6. Bottling: Carefully pour the hot jam into the prepared jars. Be careful with your fingers, as the jam is extremely hot! Screw the lids on tightly, then wrap the jars in a blanket to cool slowly. This will help create a vacuum inside the jars, ensuring long-term preservation.

7. Labeling and storing: Once completely cooled, label the jars with the date and ingredients. Store them in a pantry, in a cool and dark place.

Useful tips for a perfect result:

- Choosing the pears: Opt for Williams or Conference pears, which have a rich flavor and caramelize very well.
- Sugar: You can replace part of the sugar with honey for a healthier jam.
- Optional spices: Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves for a more exotic flavor.
- Preserving the jam: If you don't have ideal conditions for storing the jam, you can add a crushed aspirin to each jar before sealing it to prevent fermentation.

Frequently asked questions:

- How long does pear jam last? - If well sterilized and stored in a cool place, it can last up to 2 years.
- Can I use other fruits? - Absolutely! This recipe is versatile, and you can add apples or plums for a different taste!

Serving and combinations:

Pear jam is perfect for enjoying on slices of toasted bread, combined with butter or cottage cheese. It can also be a delicious topping for morning yogurt or pancakes. Try serving it alongside a fragrant tea or sparkling wine for an unforgettable culinary experience!

Nutritional benefits:

Pears are rich in fiber and vitamins, with a low calorie content. Here’s a small calorie guide for a serving of pear jam (approximately 30g):

- Calories: 80
- Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 21g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sugars: 18g

This jam is not only a way to preserve pears but also a way to bring a touch of happiness to every morning. Cooking is an art, and pear jam is a masterpiece that deserves to be savored. So, don’t hesitate to try this simple and delicious recipe!