Plum jam

Homemade Plum Jam: A Flavorful Winter Delicacy

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 35 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 6 jars of 400 g

Who doesn’t love the sweet and inviting aroma of plum jam? This classic, simple, and delicious recipe is not only a great way to preserve seasonal fruits but also an opportunity to add a personal touch to breakfast, desserts, or even savory dishes. Get ready to transform ripe, aromatic plums into a delicacy that you will enjoy all year round!

The History of Plum Jam

Plum jam has deep roots in culinary tradition, having been made for generations. Whether used as a filling for pastries, an accompaniment for cheeses, or as a simple dessert, plum jam has managed to maintain its special place on people’s tables. A simple recipe, yet with a rich and complex flavor that captures the essence of seasonal fruits.

Necessary Ingredients

- 3 kg ripe and sweet plums (choose quality plums, preferably slightly soft)
- 500 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- Juice of one lemon (approximately 50 ml)

Preparing the Plum Jam

Step 1: Preparing the Plums

Start by washing the plums thoroughly under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. After washing, drain them well and remove the pits. This step is crucial as the pits can affect the final texture of the jam.

Step 2: Boiling the Plums

Place the cleaned plums in a large pot and add the sugar. Mix well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed. Then, place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 1 hour and 30 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 3: Adding the Lemon Juice

When the jam is almost ready, add the lemon juice. This ingredient not only enhances the flavor but also helps preserve the jam due to its acidity. Let it cook for another 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 4: Preparing the Jars

While the jam is boiling, prepare the jars for storage. Wash them well with soap and water, then rinse. After that, place them in a preheated oven at 120°C to sterilize. Leave them in the oven until they become hot.

Step 5: Jarring the Jam

When the jam is ready, carefully remove the jars from the oven (be cautious of the heat!) and fill them with the hot jam, leaving a small space at the top. For better preservation, you can add a crushed aspirin on top of the jam. Seal the jars tightly and place them back in the warm, turned-off oven. Allow them to cool slowly in the oven, which will help create a perfect seal.

Step 6: Storing the Jam

After the jars have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. Plum jam can last up to a year, but it is so delicious that it might not last that long!

Practical Tips

- Choose ripe, but not overly soft plums for a pleasant texture jam.
- If you want a smoother jam, you can puree the plums with an immersion blender after cooking.
- Try adding extra flavors, such as a cinnamon stick or a few cloves, to diversify the taste.
- If you have green or slightly sour plums, you can adjust the sugar amount to achieve the desired balance.

Nutritional Benefits

Plum jam is rich in fiber and antioxidants, beneficial for digestion and cardiovascular health. Additionally, consuming plums can help maintain healthy skin due to the vitamins and minerals they contain.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits to make jam?
Yes, you can experiment with peaches, apricots, or even apples. Each fruit will give a unique flavor to your jam.

2. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
A simple trick is to drop a teaspoon of jam onto a cold plate. If it spreads slowly, it is ready.

3. How can I improve the texture of the jam?
If you desire a smoother texture, you can puree the jam with an immersion blender after cooking.

Serving and Pairing

Plum jam pairs perfectly with toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries. It can also be a delicious accompaniment to cheeses, creating a savory-sweet contrast. Dare to use it in sauces or marinades for meat, bringing a touch of sweetness to your savory dishes.

In conclusion, homemade plum jam is not just a simple recipe but also a fulfilling experience. So, put on your chef's hat and enjoy the cooking process! I assure you that the final result will be worth all the effort. Savor every spoonful of this delicious jam and share it with your loved ones!