Pear jam

Pear Jam - A Fragrant Delicacy for Winter

Discover the pleasure of making a delicious pear jam at home, perfect for winter pastries or to be enjoyed on a slice of toasted bread. This pear jam has a distinctive aroma and a velvety texture that will transform any meal into a memorable experience. Additionally, making it is a delightful activity, ideal for enjoying moments spent with family or friends.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 12 jars of 250 g

Necessary Ingredients

- 3 kilograms of green pears (choose firmer pears for quality jam)
- 1 kilogram of sugar
- 1 lemon (juice and grated peel)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

Recommended Utensils

- Fine grater
- A large stainless steel pot
- Wooden spoon
- Jars with lids (preheated)
- Cloths or towels for wrapping

Step by Step for Perfect Pear Jam

1. Preparing the Pears: Start by washing the pears well under a stream of cold water. Peel them, then cut into quarters and remove the seeds. This step is essential, as the seeds can give a bitter taste to the jam.

2. Grating the Pears: Use a fine grater to turn the pears into puree. This will help release the juices and contribute to a smooth texture of the jam.

3. Lemon Splash: Sprinkle the grated pears with lemon juice. This ingredient will not only prevent oxidation but will also add a note of freshness and acidity to the jam.

4. Boiling: In a large pot, add the grated pears and sugar. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Place the pot on low heat and let it simmer. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Cooking the Jam: Boil the mixture for about 2 hours, until the jam starts to thicken. You can check the consistency of the jam by pouring a drop on a cold plate - if it doesn’t run, the jam is ready.

6. Finalizing: At the end, add the vanilla sugar and let the jam come to a boil again. This ingredient will enrich the jam's aroma, giving it a sweet and floral note.

7. Bottling: Fill the preheated jars with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them tightly with the lids.

8. Warm Bath: Place the jars in a warm place, wrapped well in blankets or towels, to cool slowly. This process helps form a vacuum seal, ensuring better preservation.

9. Storage: After they have completely cooled, store the jars in the pantry. Pear jam can be kept for several months, but it’s so delicious that it might not last long!

Practical Tips

- Choosing Pears: Opt for firmer pears, as these will provide a better texture for the jam. Too soft pears can make the jam too runny.
- Cinnamon Variation: For a more complex flavor, you can add half a teaspoon of cinnamon to the pear mixture during boiling.
- Using Jars: Ensure that the jars are clean and sterilized. You can do this by washing them in hot water or by placing them in the oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits

Pear jam is a rich source of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Pears contain vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and potassium, beneficial for heart health. Additionally, homemade pear jam contains no preservatives or artificial additives, making it a much healthier choice compared to commercial products.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other types of fruit? Yes, this recipe can successfully be adapted for other fruits, such as apples or peaches.
- How can I tell if the jam is ready? Check its consistency on a cold plate; if it doesn’t run, it’s ready.

Serving Suggestions

Pear jam is delicious on a slice of toasted bread, but you can also use it as a filling for cakes or pies. It pairs perfectly with cheese, creating a savory delight. You can even use it as a topping for yogurt or ice cream for a quick and delicious dessert.

Conclusion

By making this pear jam, you will not only indulge your taste buds but also bring a touch of warmth and nostalgia to each jar. This is a recipe that blends tradition with the joy of cooking, offering you a final product that speaks of love and care. So embrace this culinary adventure and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!