Plum jam

Plum Jam - a sweet and aromatic delicacy

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars of 400g

Welcome to the world of sweet delights, where plum jam will surely become the star of your pantry! This simple and quick plum jam recipe not only enriches breakfast but can also be used in sophisticated desserts. Let’s embark together on the steps needed to create a delicious plum jam!

A brief history of plum jam

Plum jam has deep roots in fruit preservation traditions. Over time, housewives discovered that by cooking fruits with sugar, they could be preserved for winter, bringing sweet joy even on the coldest days. Plums, with their silky texture and intense aroma, are ideal for creating a rich and creamy jam.

Necessary ingredients

- 1.5 kg ripe plums (choose quality, ripe but firm plums)
- 500 g sugar (preferably white sugar for a lighter color)
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar (for a fragrant taste)
- 1 essence of almonds (this will enhance the jam's aroma)
- A handful of chopped nuts (optional, but adds an interesting texture)

Step by step to a perfect jam

1. Preparing the plums

Start by washing the plums well under a stream of cold water. After cleaning them, cut them in half and remove the pits. It is important to use ripe plums, as they will provide a sweeter and more aromatic jam.

2. Chopping the plums

Once the plums are cleaned, use a blender or meat grinder to turn the plums into a fine paste. This will be the base of your jam. If you want a more rustic texture in the jam, you can leave a few larger pieces.

3. Boiling the mixture

In a large pot, add the plum paste and sugar. Mix well to combine the ingredients. Place the pot over low heat and let it boil for about an hour, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.

4. Checking the consistency of the jam

A simple trick to check if the jam is ready is to take a spoonful of the mixture and place it on a plate. Let it cool for a few seconds, then tilt the plate. If the jam doesn’t run and holds its shape, it’s time to take it off the heat.

5. Adding final flavors

Once the jam is ready, add the vanilla sugar, almond essence, and chopped nuts if you chose to use them. Mix well to evenly distribute the flavors.

6. Bottling the jam

Pour the hot mixture into clean, sterilized jars. Fill the jars almost to the top, then screw on the lids. A traditional method to create a vacuum is to turn the jars upside down for a few minutes, so the heat helps seal them.

7. Cooling and storing

Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. After they have cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. Plum jam can be kept for several months, and each jar will bring joy and flavor to your days.

Practical tips for a perfect jam

- Choose plums of different varieties to achieve a more complex flavor.
- If you want a denser jam, you can add a little lemon juice, which will help thicken the mixture.
- Experiment with other nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to add a personal touch to the jam.

Frequently asked questions

1. How can I tell if the jam is cooked enough?
Use the plate method described above. If it holds its place and doesn’t run, it’s ready.

2. Can I freeze plum jam?
Yes, plum jam can be frozen. Make sure to use suitable containers for freezing.

3. How can I use plum jam?
Plum jam is delicious on toast, but it can also be used in a cheesecake or as a filling for tarts. It also pairs perfectly with aged cheeses.

Pairing with other recipes

Plum jam pairs wonderfully with fluffy pancakes for breakfast or with Greek yogurt. It can also be used as a filling for muffins or cakes. If you want a refined drink, try a black tea flavored with plums, which will perfectly complement the sweetness of the jam.

Now that you have discovered how to make delicious plum jam, don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family! This plum jam recipe is not just a dessert, but a true culinary experience that will bring joy in every jar!