Plum jam

Easy Plum Jam Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 9 minutes
Total time: 24 minutes
Servings: 6 jars of 250 ml

Plum jam is a delicacy that combines the natural sweetness of the fruit with a creamy texture, perfect for toast, pancakes, or desserts. The history of plum jam goes back in time, and this preparation is an excellent way to preserve the flavor of summer for the colder months. Whether you choose to enjoy it on a slice of toast or use it as a filling for cakes, plum jam will remind you of pleasant moments and unforgettable memories.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg ripe bistrita plums
- 1 kg gelierzucker (or jam sugar)

Necessary tools:
- Food processor
- A large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized jars with lids

Step by step for perfect plum jam:

1. Preparing the Plums:
Start by washing the plums thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or residues. Once washed, cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Bistrita plums, due to their high sugar content, will yield a delicious jam.

2. Making the Plum Puree:
Place the cleaned plums in the food processor. Blend them until you achieve a smooth paste. This step is crucial, as a uniform texture will significantly influence the final consistency of the jam.

3. Adding the Sugar:
Transfer the plum paste to a large pot. Add the gelierzucker. This will not only sweeten the jam but also help preserve it. Mix well so that the sugar is evenly distributed.

4. Cooking the Jam:
Place the pot over high heat. It is important to stir continuously to prevent sticking and burning. Cook for 6-9 minutes. You will notice that the jam begins to thicken and acquire a vibrant color. Don't forget to enjoy the enticing aroma that will fill your kitchen!

5. Checking the Consistency:
To check if the jam is ready, you can do the plate test: put a drop of jam on a cold plate and let it sit for a few seconds. Tilt the plate; if the jam does not run, it is ready to be jarred.

6. Enhancing the Flavor (optional):
If you wish, you can add a pinch of cinnamon at the end to give the jam a warm and aromatic note. This is a personal choice and will add a touch of originality to your jam.

7. Jar the Jam:
Pour the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving a 1 cm space under the lid. Make sure the jars are tightly closed. Let them cool completely at room temperature before storing them in the pantry.

Useful Tips:
- Always choose well-ripened plums to achieve a jam with a rich flavor and fine texture.
- If you don’t have gelierzucker, you can use regular sugar, but you will need to add lemon juice to help with the gelling.
- You can experiment with other spices, such as ginger or nutmeg, to personalize the flavors of your jam.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- What is the difference between jam and preserves? Jam has a smoother texture, and the fruit is not whole, while preserves may contain larger pieces of fruit.
- Can I use other types of plums? Yes, but bistrita plums offer a unique flavor and sweetness.
- How can I use plum jam? It is perfect for pancakes, toast, cakes, or even as a filling for pies.

Serving Suggestion:
Serve plum jam on a slice of toasted bread alongside a fragrant tea or natural yogurt. It will surely become a part of your breakfast or snack routine.

Possible Variations:
- Add some finely chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Experiment with fruit combinations, such as plums with apples or peaches, for a diverse flavor.

Nutritional Benefits:
Plum jam is rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and has digestive properties due to its fiber content. Consuming plum jam can contribute to a balanced and healthy diet.

This plum jam recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also bring a piece of summer into every jar. Remember: cooking is an art, and every jam has a story to tell! Enjoy it with pleasure!