Plum jam with mint and cinnamon

Plum Jam with Mint and Cinnamon - A Flavorful Delight for All Seasons

Plum jam is more than just a simple preparation; it is a memory of summers spent in the garden, a piece of sunshine and sweetness that brings you joy every morning. This recipe for plum jam with mint and cinnamon combines the delicacy of ripe fruits with the fresh flavors of mint and the familiar warmth of cinnamon, making it a perfect accompaniment for breakfast or desserts. It is also an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer for winter.

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Waiting time: 12 hours (refrigeration)
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 13 hours 15 minutes
- Number of servings: 4 jars of 300 ml

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of ripe plums (choose quality plums, without scratches)
- Sugar - enough to coat the fruit well (approximately 400-500 g, but adjust according to preferences)
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 3-4 sprigs of fresh mint (adds a touch of freshness and an unmistakable flavor)

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Preparing the Plums: Start by pitting the plums. Wash them well under cold running water, then cut them into quarters or slices, as preferred. Make sure to choose ripe but firm plums to achieve a pleasant texture for your jam.

2. Marinating the Fruits: Place the plums in a large bowl and sprinkle the sugar over them. Mix well so that each piece of plum is evenly coated with sugar. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This step will help draw out the juice from the plums, turning them into a perfect starting point for your jam.

3. Boiling: The next day, take the plum mixture out of the refrigerator. Transfer everything into a double-bottomed pot, which helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents burning. Place the pot over low heat and let the plums simmer gently. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Transforming into Paste: When the plums reach a consistency similar to that of cooked compote, use an immersion blender to make a smooth paste. If you prefer a jam with chunks, you can skip this step.

5. Reducing the Jam: Continue to cook the mixture over low heat, stirring frequently, until the jam reduces significantly and thickens. This process can take between 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your preferences.

6. Adding Flavors: About 30 minutes before turning off the heat, add the cinnamon stick and fresh mint leaves. Stir well to allow the flavors to infuse. The mint will bring a fresh note, while the cinnamon will provide comforting warmth.

7. Bottling: When the jam has reached the desired consistency, take the sterilized jars and fill them with the hot jam. Cover each jar with plastic wrap and put the lid on, ensuring it is tightly sealed.

8. Cooling: Allow the jars to cool to room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place. The jam can be consumed immediately, but the flavor will continue to develop over time.

Serving Suggestions:
Plum jam with mint and cinnamon is delicious on a slice of toasted bread, alongside butter or cheese. It can also be used as a filling for cakes or pancakes, bringing a touch of summer to every bite. Additionally, you can combine this jam with yogurt for a healthy breakfast or as a topping for ice cream.

Tips and Useful Advice:
- Choose quality plums, preferably from local production, for a better taste.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar based on the ripeness of the plums; if they are very ripe, you can use less sugar.
- If you want a more aromatic jam, you can also add a teaspoon of vanilla or a little lemon juice for a more vibrant flavor.
- Make sure the jars are well sterilized to prevent any contamination.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving (approximately 20 g) of plum jam contains about 50-60 calories, making it a delicious yet moderate choice. Plums are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making them excellent for digestion and skin health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like apricots or peaches to create varied jams.
2. How can I tell if the jam is ready? A simple method is to put a drop of jam on a cold plate; if it holds its shape and doesn't run, it's ready.
3. How long does the jam last? If properly sterilized, the jam can be stored in the pantry for up to 1 year. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a month.

This plum jam with mint and cinnamon is not just a recipe, but a culinary experience. Whether you prepare it for yourself or to give as a gift, you will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones. So, grab the plums and let your imagination soar! Enjoy!