Plum jam

Plum Jam Recipe – A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 10 jars of 400g

Plum jam is a true delight, being an easy-to-make recipe that combines the intense flavor of ripe plums with the sweetness of sugar. This jam recipe not only adds a touch of flavor to every morning but is also a wonderful way to preserve seasonal fruits. I will share all the secrets to achieving perfect jam, offering you interesting variations and serving suggestions.

Ingredients:
- 5 kg ripe plums (choose juicier plums for an intense taste)
- 500 g sugar (you can adjust the amount according to personal preferences)

Preparing the Plums: An Essential First Step
1. Wash the plums: Start by carefully washing the plums under a stream of cold water to remove impurities.
2. Peeling the skin:
- Option I (blanched): Boil water in a large pot. When the water is boiling, add the plums and let them boil for 30 seconds. Then, immediately transfer the plums to a bowl of very cold water. This method will make the skins come off much easier.
- Option II (tomato machine): If you have a tomato machine, you can pass the plums through it. This will quickly remove the skins, leaving you with only the juicy pulp.
3. Cut the plums: Once peeled, cut the plums in halves or quarters to facilitate cooking.

Cooking the Jam: The Best Technique
1. Place the plums in a pot: Choose an enamel pot that distributes heat evenly. Add the cut plums and sugar. Gently mix to combine the ingredients.
2. Melting the sugar: Place the pot over low heat and let the mixture sit for a few minutes until the sugar completely dissolves. This step is crucial, as well-melted sugar will contribute to an even jam.
3. High heat and constant stirring: Increase the temperature and bring the mixture to a boil. Use a wooden spoon to stir constantly, preventing the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cooking over high heat will allow for quick evaporation of water from the plums, concentrating the flavors.
4. Jam test: After about 30-40 minutes, you can check the consistency of the jam. Take a spoonful of jam and place it on a cold plate. If it does not leave liquid around, the jam is ready. If it is still too liquid, let it cook for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.

Bottling and Preserving: The Final Step
1. Let it cool: Turn off the heat and let the jam cool slightly, about 10-15 minutes. This step will help further thicken the jam.
2. Bottling: Use cleaned and sterilized jars to fill the jam. Fill the jars to the brim, then seal them with lids.
3. Bain-marie for sealing: Place the jars in a large pot of hot water (bain-marie) and let them boil for about 10-15 minutes. This is an important step to ensure good preservation of the jam.
4. Cooling the jars: Let the jars cool completely in the water. The next day, wipe them, label them (don't forget to specify the type of jam), and store them in the pantry.

Helpful Tip: If you enjoy flavor combinations, you can add a splash of lemon juice or some spices like cinnamon or cloves to give your jam a different taste. You can also experiment with adding other fruits, such as apples or pears, to create a mixed jam.

Nutritional Benefits: Plum jam is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Plums are an excellent source of fiber, aiding digestion, and are known for their heart health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar? Yes, brown sugar will add a note of caramelization and a deeper flavor.
- How can I tell if the jam has spoiled? If you notice an unpleasant smell or mold formation, it is best to throw away the jar.
- What is the best way to use plum jam? You can use the jam on toast, as a filling for cakes, or as a sauce for ice cream. It is also delicious alongside cheeses.

Serving Suggestions: Plum jam pairs perfectly with aged cheeses, bringing a delicious contrast of flavors. You can also use it as a filling for pancakes or as a glaze for cakes.

In conclusion, plum jam is not just a quick and simple dessert to prepare but also an excellent way to enjoy the taste of plums throughout the year. With a little patience and love, you will achieve a final product that will bring joy not only to your pantry but also to the tables of your loved ones. Happy cooking!