Quince jam

Quince Jam - a Harmony of Taste and Color

If you are looking for a simple yet special recipe that delights your senses and brings the taste of childhood to your plate, then quince jam is the perfect choice. This traditional recipe, easy to make, combines the sweet and sour aroma of quinces with its velvety texture, turning every spoonful into a memorable experience. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: Approximately 5 jars of 300g

Ingredients

- 1 kg quinces: Make sure to choose healthy, firm, and well-ripened quinces. The color should be a deep yellow, and the aroma should be strong and pleasant.
- 1 kg sugar: Preferably granulated sugar, which helps achieve a fine texture.
- 750 ml water: Pure water is essential for obtaining a perfect syrup.
- Juice of one lemon: This will help preserve the color and add a note of freshness.

Necessary utensils

- A large pot with a thick bottom (ideal for making jams)
- A sharp knife
- A grater with large holes (if you want a variation)
- A deep plate for the syrup test
- Sterilized jars for storing the jam

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the quinces:
Start by selecting ripe, high-quality quinces. Wash them well under cold running water to remove the fuzz from the skin. Use a sharp knife to peel them, then cut them into cubes of about 1 cm. This size will allow for even caramelization and a pleasant texture.

2. Preparing the syrup:
In the large pot, add 750 ml of water and 1 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. It is important not to let the syrup boil too quickly, as you want to ensure that the sugar integrates well.

3. Adding the quinces:
Once the syrup starts to boil, add the quince cubes to the pot. Gently stir to coat them evenly with syrup. Allow them to boil for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the quinces become slightly translucent.

4. Syrup test:
Use the deep plate to check the syrup's consistency. Take a spoonful of syrup and place it on the plate. If the syrup holds its shape and does not spread, it is ready for the next step. If not, let it boil for a few more minutes.

5. Adding the lemon:
When the syrup is ready, add the juice of one lemon. This step is essential, as the acidity of the lemon helps maintain the vibrant color of the quinces and adds a note of freshness to the jam.

6. Finalizing the jam:
Let it boil for a few more minutes, then turn off the heat. Allow the jam to cool slightly before transferring it to sterilized jars.

7. Storing the jam:
Fill the jars with the warm jam, seal them tightly, and let them cool completely at room temperature. Then, store them in the pantry or refrigerator for later use.

Practical tips

- Variations: You can experiment with various flavors by adding, for example, a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during boiling. These spices will give a special taste to your jam.
- Texture: If you prefer a finer jam, you can grate the quinces using the large-hole grater. This will help with a better blending of flavors.
- Preservation: Make sure the jars are perfectly sterilized to prevent spoilage of the jam. You can sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.

Nutritional benefits

Quinces are an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Consuming quince jam can support the immune system and aid digestion. Additionally, being a dessert option with a moderate sugar content, it is a suitable choice to satisfy sweet cravings without feeling guilty.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned quinces?: While it is possible, the taste and texture will not be as good as fresh quinces.
- How can I tell if the jam is ready?: The plate test is the simplest way to check the syrup's consistency. If it holds compactly on the plate, it is ready.
- What can I do with quince jam?: You can use this delicious jam on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for cakes and tarts. It also pairs perfectly with mature cheeses for a refined appetizer.

Serving

For a special presentation, serve quince jam in small jars, decorated with a ribbon, alongside goat cheese or ricotta. Give it a rustic and warm feel, perfect for a gathering with friends or a festive meal.

Quince jam is not just a recipe, but a sweet memory of times when nature offered us the best gifts. Savor every spoonful and don’t hesitate to share this recipe with your loved ones!