Plum jam

Plum Jam with Rum - an Autumn Delicacy

Discover the magic of plum jam! This preparation not only adds a touch of sweetness to every morning but is also a traditional recipe that evokes memories of childhood, warm autumn days, and moments spent with loved ones. Start your culinary adventure with this simple recipe for plum jam, enriched with the essence of rum, giving it a unique and captivating flavor.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 3 kg of ripe and juicy plums
- 500 g of granulated sugar
- 1 fresh lemon
- 4 caps of rum essence (or 1-2 tablespoons, to taste)

Nutritional benefits:
Plums are an excellent source of fiber, vitamins (A, C, K), and minerals (potassium, manganese), having beneficial effects on digestion and cardiovascular health. This plum jam contains no additives or preservatives, making it a healthy option for all sweet lovers.

Making the plum jam:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the plums well under cold running water. Choose ripe but firm plums to achieve a jam with the perfect texture. After washing, cut them in half and remove the pits. You will find that this step is essential for obtaining a smooth and creamy jam.

Step 2: Macerating the plums
Place the plums in a large pot and sprinkle the granulated sugar over them. Cover the pot with a lid and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This maceration process will help the plums release their juice, enhancing the flavor of the jam and making it easier to cook.

Step 3: Boiling the jam
The next day, take the pot out of the refrigerator and add the lemon juice and rum essence. The lemon will not only add a pleasant tartness but will also help preserve the jam. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 2 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 4: Checking the consistency
After 2 hours of boiling, check the consistency of the jam. Put a drop of jam on a cold plate and tilt it. If the jam does not run, it’s ready! If it’s still too liquid, let it boil for a few more minutes.

Step 5: Packing and preserving
Prepare clean and sterilized jars. Fill each jar with the hot jam, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Place the lids on the jars and turn them upside down. This trick helps create a seal, thus extending the shelf life of the jam. Allow the jars to cool completely, then store them in the pantry.

Practical tip: If you want to add a touch of creativity, you can experiment with additional flavors. A teaspoon of cinnamon or a pinch of freshly grated ginger can provide an even more intense flavor to your jam.

Serving and delicious combinations:
Plum jam with rum pairs perfectly with warm toast, fluffy pancakes, or muffins. It can also be successfully used to fill cakes or pastries. Additionally, a simple yogurt instantly becomes more delicious with a spoonful of plum jam on top.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen plums?
Yes, you can use frozen plums, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
2. How can I tell if the jam is well made?
To check, use the cold plate method. If the jam thickens on the plate and does not run, it’s ready.
3. How long does plum jam last?
If stored in a cool, dark place, plum jam can last between 1-2 years.

This plum jam with rum is not just a recipe, but a family story, a gift from nature that you can savor all year round. Whether you use it for breakfast or add it to desserts, each spoonful will bring a smile to your face. Try it and share it with your loved ones!