Plum jam

Enjoy the aroma and flavor of homemade plum jam, a classic recipe that brings a touch of nostalgia to every jar. This plum jam is perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh bread, adding to cakes, or using as a filling for various desserts. Additionally, it is an excellent way to preserve seasonal fruits, giving them a longer life and delicious taste throughout the year.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 2 hours
Cooking time: 3 hours
Total time: 5 hours 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400g

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 kilograms of ripe plums
- 1 kilogram of sugar

A bit of history:
Plum jam has a long tradition in kitchens around the world. Every housewife has had, at some point, her unique recipe, often passed down from generation to generation. It not only preserves seasonal fruits but also offers a delicious way to consume them throughout the year. The flavor of plum jam is intensified by the caramelization of sugar, which perfectly complements the natural aroma of the plums.

Making plum jam: step by step

1. Washing and preparing the plums:
Start by washing the 3 kilograms of plums thoroughly under cold running water. It is important to remove any impurities. After washing, cut the plums in half and remove the pits. This step may take a little time, but it is essential for achieving a fine and tasty jam.

2. Mixing with sugar:
Place the plums in a thick-bottomed pot, such as a cauldron, and sprinkle the sugar over them. Gently mix, ensuring that all the plums are evenly coated with sugar. This process helps to extract juice from the fruit. Let the mixture sit for about 2 hours. During this time, the sugar will start to dissolve, and the plums will release juice, forming a delicious base for the jam.

3. Cooking the jam:
After the 2 hours have passed, place the pot on low heat. It is important to start with low heat to avoid burning the jam. When the mixture begins to boil, partially cover it and transfer the pot to a preheated oven at a low temperature (approximately 100°C). Let the jam simmer slowly for 3 hours. During this time, stir occasionally to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. This is a crucial step for achieving a smooth texture and intense flavor.

4. Bottling:
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, it is time to bottle it. Prepare the jars by preheating them in the oven. This will help keep the jam warm and prevent bacteria from forming. Fill the jars with the hot jam, leaving a small space at the top for expansion. Seal the jars tightly.

5. Preserving:
Once the jars are filled, cover them with blankets and let them cool slowly. This process is known as "hot bath" and helps seal the jars, ensuring better preservation of the jam. Leave the jars covered until the next day, then store them in your pantry.

Practical tips:
- Choosing plums: Make sure to choose ripe and healthy plums. Overly green or spoiled plums can affect the taste of the jam.
- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you like less sweet jams, you can reduce the sugar to 800g.
- Variations: Add a splash of lemon juice to enhance the acidity of the jam or incorporate spices like cinnamon or ginger for a more exotic flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Plum jam is an excellent source of fiber, vitamins A and C, and plums are known for their antioxidant properties. Consuming plum jam can help improve digestion and maintain a healthy immune system.

Frequently asked questions:
- How can I check if the jam is ready? A simple method is to put a drop of jam on a cold plate. If it does not spread, it means it is ready.
- How can I store the jam for a longer time? Make sure the jars are perfectly sealed and store them in cool, dark places.

I recommend trying this plum jam alongside a warm muffin or as a filling for a vanilla cake. It also pairs perfectly with a cup of fragrant tea. Savor every spoonful and enjoy the tradition of home cooking!