Plum jam

Plum jam – a sweet and fragrant delight, full of memories

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 8 jars of 400 g

Who doesn't love homemade plum jam? This jam is not just a simple spread, but a true treasure of summer, filled with the flavors and colors of ripe fruits. It is perfect for spreading on a slice of toast at breakfast, but also as a secret ingredient in various desserts or pastries. Moreover, making plum jam is a satisfying activity that reminds us of traditions and beautiful moments spent with family.

The history of plum jam is closely tied to the cultivation of plums, a fruit that has been appreciated over time for both its sweet taste and nutritional benefits. Plums are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber, and the jam made from them retains many of these properties.

Ingredients:

- 3 kg of ripe plums
- 1 kg of sugar

Preparation techniques:

1. Selecting the plums: Choose ripe but not damaged plums. The fruits should be firm and juicy. It is recommended to use "early" or "summer" plums, which have a sweet and aromatic taste.

2. Washing and preparing the plums: Wash the plums under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. Then, cut the plums in half, removing the pits. If you want a smoother jam, you can pass the plums through a food processor.

3. Layering the jam: In a 6-liter pot, layer the plums and sprinkle sugar over them. Continue to alternate layers of plums and sugar until all the plums are used. This technique allows the sugar to gradually dissolve, extracting juice from the plums and forming a delicious base for the jam.

4. Cooking the jam: Place the pot in a preheated oven at a moderate heat. It is essential to stir the jam occasionally to prevent sticking and burning. This is a crucial step, as constant stirring ensures even cooking.

5. Checking the consistency: After about an hour, the jam will begin to thicken. Check its consistency; if you want a thicker jam, let it boil until it reduces by almost half.

6. Bottling the jam: When the jam has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat and fill sterilized jars with the hot jam. It is important to use clean jars to prevent contamination.

7. Cooling the jars: Once filled, cover the jars with a blanket or a thick towel and let them cool completely. This step helps create a vacuum seal that will keep the jam fresh for a long time.

Useful tips:

- Sweetening the jam: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you like a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar to 800 g.
- Flavoring the jam: Add a sprig of vanilla or a few cloves during cooking for an even more aromatic taste.
- The version with a food processor: If you prefer a smoother texture, use a food processor to turn the plums into a paste before adding the sugar. This way, the jam will be more homogeneous and easier to spread.

Delicious combinations:

Plum jam pairs perfectly with various dishes. You can use it as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or toast. It is also delicious alongside cheeses or as a topping for yogurt. You can experiment with different dessert recipes, such as plum jam cake or plum and walnut pie.

Nutritional benefits:

Plums are an excellent source of vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin K, and vitamin A. They are also rich in fiber, making them beneficial for digestion. Consuming plum jam in moderation can contribute to a healthy diet, providing a boost of energy and nutrients.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen plums?
Yes, you can use frozen plums, but make sure to let them thaw completely before preparing.

2. Does plum jam last long?
If properly sterilized and stored in a cool place, plum jam can last up to a year.

3. Can I add other fruits to the jam?
Of course! You can combine plums with peaches, apples, or apricots for a delicious mixed jam.

This plum jam is a simple and quick recipe that will fill your home with enticing aromas and bring a touch of summer to any season. Make it with love and enjoy the final result!