Plum jam with walnuts

Plum Jam with Nuts: A Flavorful Delicacy for the Whole Family

Who doesn't remember the plum jam from childhood? That inviting aroma, the balanced taste between sweet and tangy, all brought to life through a simple yet traditional preparation method. Plum jam with nuts is a recipe that not only delights your taste buds but also brings back precious memories. I invite you to discover how to prepare this delicacy at home, which will be a staple on your table during the cold season.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 6 jars of 400 g

Necessary ingredients:
- 3 kg of ripe plums (choose plums that are not too soft to remain whole)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1,200 g of sugar
- 300 g of walnut kernels (you can use roasted or raw nuts, depending on your preference)

Step by step: How to prepare plum jam with nuts

1. Preparing the Plums:
Start by washing the plums well under cold running water. Make sure they are clean, as any impurities will end up in your jam. After washing, cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Place the plum pulp in a deep pot, preferably stainless steel, to prevent chemical reactions.

2. Mixing with Sugar:
Cover the plums with sugar. It is preferable to use granulated sugar for even dissolution. Gently mix so that the sugar distributes well among the plums. Cover the pot with a towel and let it sit overnight, stirring a few times. This is the stage where the plums will release their juice, providing a delicious base for your jam.

3. Boiling:
The next day, place the pot over medium heat. Wait until the mixture starts to boil. You will notice foam forming on the surface – don't worry, this is normal. Use a spoon to remove the foam. Continue to boil the jam over moderate heat for 35-45 minutes.

4. Testing Consistency:
To check if the jam is set, drop a few drops on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and doesn't spread, it's ready. If not, let it cook a few more minutes.

5. Adding Flavors:
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, add the lemon juice and the slightly crushed walnut kernels. The nuts add a unique flavor and a crunchy texture. Let the jam boil for another 5 minutes.

6. Bottling:
When the jam is ready, pour it immediately into sterilized jars, ensuring they are still hot to prevent bacterial growth. Seal the jars tightly and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. Cover them with a blanket and let them cool completely until the next day.

Serving suggestions:
Plum jam with nuts is perfect for serving with natural yogurt, providing you with a healthy and delicious breakfast. You can also use this jam to fill a fluffy roll, adding pieces of nuts for extra flavor. It is an excellent choice to accompany cheeses or to add a touch of sweetness to your favorite dishes.

Tips and useful advice:
- You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as hazelnuts or pistachios, to achieve a different flavor.
- If you want a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar amount by 200 g.
- Make sure the jars are completely sterilized before filling them to extend the shelf life of the jam.
- The jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year.

Nutritional information (per 100 g serving):
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Fat: 1 g
- Carbohydrates: 60 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 2 g

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen plums for this recipe?
Yes, frozen plums can be used, but the texture may be slightly different.

2. How can I tell if the jam is well preserved?
Check if the lid is tightly sealed and shows no signs of rust or mold.

3. What other fruits can I use in combination with plums?
Apples, peaches, or apricots combine very well with plums, offering a variety of flavors.

In conclusion, plum jam with nuts is a simple and delicious recipe that will bring a touch of joy to every jar. Don't hesitate to put your personal stamp on the recipe with various combinations and variations. Enjoy!