Plum jam

Plum Jam - An Autumn Delicacy

On a beautiful autumn day, I received a special gift from my brother: a few kilograms of fresh plums, picked straight from a friend's orchard. Although plum jam is tempting, I had a revelation: why not turn these fruits into plum jam? This simple yet extremely tasty recipe is an excellent choice for those who prefer a less sweet, sugar-free option. Plum jam is a versatile delicacy, perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh bread or adding to various desserts.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Baking time: 10 hours
Total time: 11 hours
Number of servings: Approximately 4 jars of 350 grams

Ingredients:
- 5 kg fresh plums (as many as fit in my pot for one batch)
- 1 cup of water (approximately 250 ml)
- 4 aspirins (for preservation)

Step 1: Preparing the Plums
Start by washing the plums thoroughly under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove all impurities, as hygiene is essential for achieving quality jam. After washing, cut the plums in half and remove the pits. You can use a sharp knife or a special tool for pit removal. This step may seem laborious, but it is worth the effort!

Step 2: Cooking the Plums
Choose a pot that is large enough to hold all the plums. Add the cleaned plums and a cup of water. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil for one hour. This initial cooking time will help the plums soften and release their natural juice.

Step 3: Baking in the Oven
After boiling for an hour, transfer the pot to a preheated oven at 100°C. It is important to check the jam occasionally and stir gently to prevent sticking. Slow baking is the key to achieving a rich and creamy plum jam. Let it bake for about 10 hours, during which the aroma will fill the entire house, and you will be rewarded with a remarkable final product.

Step 4: Checking the Consistency
After 10 hours, check if the jam has reduced by more than half and reached a thick, spreadable consistency. It is important for the jam to be well concentrated to be stored long-term.

Step 5: Packing and Preserving
When the jam is ready, take clean, dry jars and fill them with the warm jam. It is recommended to use glass jars with lids that have been sterilized beforehand to ensure optimal preservation. To prevent fermentation, sprinkle a crushed aspirin on each jar. This simple trick will help maintain the freshness of the jam.

Step 6: Storing
Seal the jars with their lids and let them cool to room temperature. Then, store them in a cool place, away from moisture and heat. Plum jam can be kept throughout the winter and is a true treasure during the cold season.

Nutritional Benefits:
Plum jam is not only delicious but also healthy! Plums are rich in vitamins (A, C, K), minerals (potassium, iron), and fiber, making them excellent for digestion. Consuming plums is associated with benefits for heart health and the immune system. Without added sugar, your jam will be an excellent choice for healthy breakfasts or quick snacks.

Possible Variations:
If you want to bring a touch of innovation to your recipe, you can add cinnamon or vanilla during baking to provide an even more aromatic flavor. You can also experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or apples, to create a unique combination.

Serving Suggestions:
Plum jam is perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh bread, but you can also use it to fill pancakes, pastries, or even as a topping for yogurt. It pairs wonderfully with aged cheese, creating a delicious sweet-salty contrast.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use dried plums for jam?
It is not recommended, as dried plums do not contain as much water and will not turn into a creamy jam.

2. How can I check if the jam is well-cooked?
The jam is ready when it has significantly reduced and has a thick consistency. You can do a simple test: put a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate, let it sit for a few seconds, then tilt the plate. If it does not run, it is ready!

3. Is it necessary to use aspirin?
Aspirin is a natural preservative, but if you do not wish to use it, you can opt for properly sterilized jars and keep the jam in the refrigerator, consuming it more quickly.

Plum jam is not just a recipe; it is a tradition that connects us to memories of our grandmothers and the tastes of childhood. Whether you prepare it for yourself or as a gift for loved ones, this delicacy will bring a touch of joy to any meal. So, put on your apron and let’s bring these wonderful plums to life!