Plum butter

Plum Jam: A Traditional Delicacy

Plum jam is a delicacy that brings the authentic taste of autumn to the forefront. This simple yet flavorful recipe is perfect for preserving the essence of seasonal fruits in jars for winter. By using damson plums, which are highly valued for their texture and aroma, you will achieve a fine and aromatic jam, ideal for enjoying on toast or as a filling for various desserts.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Baking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 8 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- Damson plums (quantity of your choice, preferably 1 kg for a basic recipe)
- Sugar (optional, 100 g per 1 kg of plums if you prefer a sweeter jam)
- Vanilla sugar (optional, for an extra flavor)

Before starting, let’s ensure that we have all the ingredients ready and that we are equipped with the necessary tools. A food processor or a powerful blender will be very helpful for achieving a fine texture. Additionally, a long-handled wooden spoon will be essential for stirring the jam while it cooks.

Preparing the plum jam:

1. Washing and preparing the plums: Start by washing the plums thoroughly under a stream of cold water. This step is essential for removing any impurities. Once the plums are clean, cut them in half and remove the pits. This can be done easily, and the damson plums, with their thin skin, will peel without problems.

2. Grinding the plums: Using a food processor or a blender, turn the plums into puree. You want to achieve a very fine consistency, so do not leave large chunks. If you have a blender, it's easier and quicker, but a manual food mill can add a bit of authenticity to the process.

3. Cooking the jam: Transfer the plum puree into a large pot with a thick bottom that will distribute heat evenly. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly with the wooden spoon. The beginning of boiling requires special attention, as the jam can splatter and cause burns. So, don’t walk away!

4. Checking the consistency: The jam is ready when, stirring, the spoon leaves a distinct trail in the mixture that does not disappear immediately. This is one of the most important stages, as the consistency is key to a perfect jam. Also, when stirring, you will notice that the jam no longer runs off the spoon but breaks off in pieces.

5. Adding sugar: If you prefer a sweeter jam, add the sugar and vanilla sugar in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking. These will enhance the flavor of the plums and provide a special taste. However, to maintain the authenticity and healthiness of the preparation, many people choose not to add any sugar at all.

6. Preserving the jam: When the jam is ready, pour it hot into sterilized jars. It is important to use jars that have been cleaned and sterilized beforehand to prevent bacterial growth. An effective method of sterilization is boiling the jars in water for 10 minutes. After filling the jars, seal them tightly.

7. Sterilizing the jars: For better preservation, boil the jars in a water bath for 20-30 minutes. This step ensures that the jam will last optimally throughout the winter. After you’re done, let the jars cool completely and then label them for easy identification in the pantry.

Serving suggestions and variations:

Plum jam is delicious on a slice of toast, but you can also use it as a filling for pies, cakes, or pancakes. It also pairs perfectly with cottage cheese or yogurt for a healthy and energizing breakfast.

If you want to experiment, try adding spices like cinnamon or cloves during cooking for an even richer flavor.

Nutritional benefits and calories:

Plum jam is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Plums are rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium, and the jam you prepare at home contains no preservatives or additives. Calories vary depending on the amount of sugar added, but a serving of 100 g of plum jam without added sugar contains about 200 calories.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use other types of plums?
Yes, but damson plums are the most suitable due to their texture and flavor. Other varieties may yield a thinner jam.

2. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
Check the consistency; the jam should leave a trail on the bottom of the pot and not run off the spoon easily.

3. Can I sweeten the jam with honey or natural sweeteners?
Yes, but it is recommended to add these ingredients in small amounts and check the taste, as honey can influence the final flavor.

Plum jam is not just a recipe, but a memory of summer, carefully preserved in jars, ready to delight your senses even on the coldest winter days. Experiment, adapt, and enjoy the authentic flavor of this wonderful preparation. Enjoy your meal!