Pumpkin jam with citrus and raisins

Pumpkin Jam with Citrus and Raisins – A Flavorful and Comforting Delight

If you are looking for an original jam recipe, I invite you to try this pumpkin jam with citrus and raisins. Its intense aroma and velvety texture make it perfect for spreading on a slice of toasted bread or for accompanying fluffy pancakes. This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but will also transform your kitchen into a place filled with enticing aromas.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg pumpkin flesh (about one large pumpkin)
- 2 kg sugar
- 1 orange
- 1 grapefruit
- 2 lemons
- 6 packets of vanilla sugar
- 2 cups of water (approximately 400-450 ml)
- 2-3 tablespoons of raisins

A bit of history: Pumpkin jam is a traditional preparation in many cultures, appreciated for its versatility. Pumpkin has been cultivated for thousands of years, being a staple ingredient in gastronomy due to its sweet taste and nutritional value. Combining it with citrus not only enhances the aroma but also adds a note of freshness, balancing the sweetness.

Step by step for a perfect jam:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the pumpkin well. Cut it in half and remove the seeds. Use a large-holed grater to grate the pumpkin flesh. This step will help achieve a fine texture.

2. Boiling the pumpkin: Place the grated pumpkin flesh in a large pot, adding the two cups of water. Simmer for about 30 minutes or until the pumpkin becomes soft. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Preparing the citrus: While the pumpkin is boiling, squeeze the juice from the orange, grapefruit, and lemons. Make sure to remove the seeds. Keep the juice in a large bowl.

4. Activating the raisins: Place the raisins in a small bowl and cover them with warm water. Let them soak for about 10-15 minutes, then drain well.

5. Creating the syrup: In another pot, add the citrus juice, granulated sugar, and vanilla sugar. Simmer the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly, until it thickens like syrup. This will take between 10 and 15 minutes.

6. Pureeing the pumpkin: Once the pumpkin is boiled, use a hand mixer to puree it until you achieve a smooth consistency. Add the pumpkin puree to the citrus syrup mixture and mix well.

7. Boiling the jam: Continue to simmer the mixture over low heat, stirring constantly with a wooden spoon. If you desire a thicker jam, boil for a longer time, being careful not to let it stick.

8. Adding the raisins: After the jam reaches the desired consistency, add the raisins to the mixture and boil for an additional 5-10 minutes.

9. Sterilizing the jars: While the jam is boiling, you can sterilize the jars. Wash them well, then place them in a preheated oven at 180 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes.

10. Filling the jars: Once the jam is ready and the jars are sterilized, fill each jar with the hot jam, leaving a 1-2 cm space at the top. Seal the jars with screw caps or cover them with double plastic wrap.

11. Cooling: Place the filled jars in a dry and cool place, covering them with a towel to keep them warm. Leave them like this until the next day, when you can store them in the pantry.

Serving suggestions: This pumpkin jam with citrus and raisins is delicious on toasted bread, in pancakes, or even as a filling for pies. You can pair it with a fragrant tea or coffee for a perfect breakfast.

Nutritional benefits: Pumpkin is an excellent source of vitamins A and C, rich in antioxidants. The citrus adds an extra boost of vitamin C, while the raisins provide essential fiber and minerals. This jam will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but will also offer healthy benefits.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen pumpkin? Yes, you can use frozen pumpkin, but make sure it is thawed and well-drained before use.
- Can the jam be preserved for a longer time? Yes, if the jars are well sterilized and sealed correctly, the jam will keep for several years in the pantry.
- How can I vary the flavors? You can add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavors, or experiment with other dried fruits.

Possible variations: If you want to try a more exotic version, you can add a splash of rum essence or a bit of grated ginger to the pumpkin mixture for a surprising taste. Additionally, you can replace the raisins with dried apricots or cranberries to slightly change the flavor profile.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to get cooking! This pumpkin jam with citrus and raisins will surely become a favorite delicacy in your home, bringing a touch of warmth and well-being. Enjoy!