Quince jam

Quince jam: a sweet and aromatic delicacy

I invite you to discover the magic of quince jam, a preparation that transforms fragrant fruits into the sweet and velvety taste of summer. This easy-to-make recipe will not only fill your home with an inviting aroma but will also provide you with a natural jam, free of additives, perfect for enjoying on toast or as an ingredient in various desserts. Let's get started!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: approximately 6 jars of 400 g

Ingredients

- 2.5 kg fresh quinces
- 700 g sugar (or to taste)
- 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice (to prevent oxidation)
- Cinnamon (to taste)
- Water (enough to cover the quinces)

Necessary utensils

- Heavy-bottomed pot
- Hand mixer or blender
- Sterilized jars (preferably glass)
- Wooden spoon
- Sieve or strainer

Brief history

Quince jam is a traditional preparation that has been appreciated for centuries due to its distinctive taste and nutritional properties. Quinces, seasonal fruits, have been used since ancient times in various cultures, not only for their sweetness but also for their health benefits. The golden-yellow color and intense aroma of quince jam make it a perfect accompaniment for a variety of dishes, from cheeses to cakes.

Step by step

1. Preparing the quinces: Start by washing the quinces well under cold running water to remove impurities. Peel and core them. Do not throw away the peels and cores! You can use these scraps to make delicious quince petals, which will add extra flavor to your jam.

2. Cutting the quinces: Cut the quinces into slices or cubes, depending on your preference. Drizzle them with lemon juice to prevent oxidation and maintain a vibrant color.

3. Boiling the quinces: Place the quinces in a heavy-bottomed pot, add enough water to cover them, and add cinnamon to taste. Let them simmer on low heat until softened, about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Blend and weigh: After the quinces have boiled, let them drain in a sieve or strainer. Then, use a hand mixer or blender to turn the cooked fruit into a smooth paste. Weigh the resulting mixture; for example, if you have 1.4 kg of paste, add 700 g of sugar.

5. Cooking the jam: Put the paste back in the pot and add the sugar. Stir well to dissolve it. Continue to simmer the mixture on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 1 hour, or until the jam thickens and becomes sticky. You can do a simple test: put a drop of jam on a cold plate; if it doesn't run, it's ready!

6. Bottling: When the jam is ready, pour it into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars with airtight lids and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. It is essential to store them in a cool, dark place to prolong their shelf life.

Practical tips

- Sugar-free option: If you prefer a healthier version, you can replace sugar with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, keeping in mind that these may change the texture of the jam.
- Ideal quinces: Choose firm but ripe quinces; these will yield a more flavorful and consistent jam.
- Experiment with flavors: You can also add other spices, such as cloves or cardamom, to diversify the flavors of your jam.

Combinations and serving

Quince jam pairs perfectly with cheeses, especially brie or camembert, offering a delicious contrast between sweet and savory. It is also ideal for use as a filling for cakes or gingerbread. You can try serving it with Greek yogurt or as a topping for pancakes for a special breakfast.

Calories and nutritional benefits

Quince jam is a source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants. A serving (approximately 20 g) contains, on average, 50-60 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. Quinces also have digestive properties, being good for the immune system.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long does quince jam last?
Quince jam can be stored for up to a year if kept in proper conditions, in a cool, dark place.

2. Can I use frozen quinces?
Although it is recommended to use fresh quinces, you can also use frozen ones, but they may release more water, which can affect the final consistency of the jam.

3. Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure you have a large enough pot to cook all the quinces evenly.

Now that you have all the necessary information, it's time to start cooking! Making quince jam will become a pleasant tradition in your kitchen, and its taste will take you back to warm summer days. Happy cooking!