Plum jam

Stanley Plum Jam - A Delicacy at Home

Plum jam is a classic recipe, loved by generations, and is perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to every morning. With an ideal texture, neither too runny nor too thick, this jam is perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh bread or accompanying fine cheeses. So, let’s start the culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 24 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 12 kg Stanley plums (ideal due to their high sugar content and intense flavors)
- Water for blanching the plums
- 5 kg sugar (use white sugar for a classic jam or brown sugar for a more caramelized taste)
- 2.5 l water for syrup

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot
- Baking tray
- 400 g jars with lids
- Skimmer (to remove foam, if necessary)
- Glass or plate for testing the consistency

The History of Plum Jam:
Plum jam has a long-standing tradition, prepared over time as a way to preserve fruits for winter. Plum pits are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, making this jam a delicious and healthy choice. It is not just a dessert but also a versatile accompaniment for various dishes.

Step by Step for Perfect Jam:

1. Preparing the Plums: Start by washing the plums well. It is essential to remove any impurities. Stanley plums are preferred for their meaty and sweet texture.

2. Blanching the Plums: Bring water to a boil in a large pot. When the water reaches boiling point, add the plums gradually, leaving them in the hot water for 2-3 minutes. This process makes the skin come off easily.

3. Peeling the Plums: Remove the plums from the water with a skimmer and place them on a tray. Once they have cooled slightly, peel off the skin and remove the pits. It’s a task that requires a little patience, but it’s worth it!

4. Preparing the Syrup: In another pot, add 2.5 l of water and the sugar. Boil the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved and the syrup starts to thicken. This will add a delicious taste to the jam, complementing the flavor of the plums.

5. Boiling the Jam: Add the peeled plums into the pot with the syrup and boil over medium heat. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. When the jam starts to reduce and sticks to the bottom of the pot, it’s time to test the consistency.

6. Consistency Test: Put a spoonful of jam on a plate and let it cool for a few minutes. If it remains slightly runny, it’s perfect. If it’s too fluid, let it boil a little longer.

7. Preparing the Jars: Preheat the oven and fill a tray with water. When the jam is ready, fill the 400 g jars with hot jam, seal them with the lids, and place them in the tray with warm water. Bake for 40 minutes to ensure proper preservation.

8. Cooling the Jam: After baking, let the jars cool in the oven or wrapped in a blanket for 2-3 days. This step helps maintain flavors and forms a vacuum that will keep the jam fresh.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Plums: Opt for ripe but firm plums. Stanley plums are the most suitable, but you can experiment with other varieties.
- Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the amount of sugar by 1-2 kg. The jam will have a more intense plum flavor.
- Aromatic Additions: You can add half a vanilla bean or cinnamon to give a unique flavor to your jam.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- How long can the jam be stored? Once sealed properly, the jam can be stored for up to 1 year in the pantry. After opening, consume it within a few weeks.
- What can I do with plum jam? Besides spreading it on bread, you can use it to fill pancakes, accompany cheese, or add it to your morning yogurt.

Delicious Combinations:
Plum jam pairs wonderfully with aged cheeses like brie or cheddar. For a savory dessert, serve this jam with warm pancakes or as a filling for tart.

Personalized Version:
For a personal touch, you can experiment with adding orange or lemon zest, finely grated, to give a splash of freshness to your plum jam.

In conclusion, making this Stanley plum jam is a delightful activity that will not only fill your pantry with an unforgettable treat but will also bring you the joy of savoring the taste of childhood, right in the comfort of your own home. So, don’t hesitate and enjoy the magic of cooking!