Plum jam with walnuts

Delicious Plum Jam with Nuts Recipe

When it comes to jams and preserves, nothing is more comforting than the aroma and texture of homemade plum jam. This recipe for plum jam with nuts will not only fill your home with inviting scents but will also bring a touch of nostalgia to every jar. A perfect combination of the sweetness of plums and the crunchiness of nuts, this jam is ideal for enjoying on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for cakes and tarts.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 3.5 kg plums (choose ripe but firm plums for a richer taste)
- 1 kg sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your desired sweetness)
- 200 g nuts (preferably Romanian walnuts for an authentic flavor)

Brief history:
Plum jam is a traditional recipe found in many cultures. Originating from ancient times, this combination of fruit and sugar was used as a method of preserving fruit to be enjoyed throughout the year. Plums are recognized not only for their delicious taste but also for their nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the plums well under cold running water. Choose plums without spots or signs of damage. After washing, cut them in half and remove the pits. This is an essential step, as the pits will not be used in the jam, but we will keep them for added flavor.

2. Maceration:
Place the cut plums in a large bowl and add the sugar. Gently mix to ensure the sugar evenly coats the plums. Cover the bowl with a towel or plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator overnight. This step helps extract the juice from the plums and forms a delicious syrup.

3. Boiling the mixture:
The next day, take the bowl with the plums and sugar and transfer the contents to a large pot. Place the pot over low heat and bring the mixture to a boil. It is important to stir constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. After a few minutes, you will notice how the plums release their juice, and the sugar begins to dissolve.

4. Adding the nuts:
After about 30-40 minutes of boiling, when the syrup has begun to thicken, add the chopped nuts. The nuts will add a crunchy texture and a unique flavor to your jam. Continue boiling the mixture for another 10-15 minutes, until the jam reaches the desired consistency. You can check the consistency by placing a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate; if it doesn't run, it's ready!

5. Preserving the jam:
While the jam is hot, pour it into sterilized jars. It is recommended to use jars with metal lids, as they provide better sealing. After filling the jars, close them tightly and turn them upside down. This trick helps create a vacuum, thus extending the shelf life of the jam. Wrap the jars in a thick blanket to cool gradually, which will help retain the flavors.

Practical tips:
- Ensure that all utensils and jars used are well sterilized to avoid contaminating the jam.
- You can experiment with different types of nuts, such as almonds or hazelnuts, to change its flavor profile.
- If you like a tarter jam, you can add lemon juice during boiling.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Why do I need to leave the plums with sugar overnight?
Maceration helps extract juices from the plums, which is essential for a jam with a good texture.

2. Can I use other fruits instead of plums?
Yes, you can adapt the recipe using peaches, apricots, or apples, but adjustments to the cooking time will be necessary.

3. How long can plum jam be stored?
If stored under optimal conditions (in a cool, dark place), the jam can be consumed for a year or even longer.

Delicious pairings:
This plum jam with nuts pairs perfectly with cottage cheese or feta cheese. You can also use it as a filling for pancakes or pastries. Don't forget to serve it alongside a cup of tea or coffee for a complete culinary experience.

Nutritional benefits:
Plums are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, and contain antioxidants that combat free radicals. Nuts are an excellent source of healthy fats and proteins, beneficial for heart health.

In conclusion, this recipe for plum jam with nuts will not only enrich your table with a homemade product but will also bring joy to every jar. Making this jam is a wonderful activity that can be done together with family or friends, turning it into an unforgettable memory. So put on your chef's gloves and let's turn fruits into delicious magic! Enjoy!