Quince Jam

Quince Jam: A Flavorful Delicacy

Quince jam is a traditional preparation, rich in flavors and history, that reminds us of the tastes of childhood. With a velvety texture and vibrant color, this jam is perfect for enjoying on a slice of toasted bread or alongside fine cheeses. Its preparation is a simple yet satisfying process that will fill your home with an inviting aroma. Let’s discover together how to make the perfect quince jam!

Preparation Time
- Preparation time: 30 minutes
- Cooking time: 2 hours
- Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400 g

Ingredients
- 5 kg quinces
- 3 kg sugar
- 2 l water

Necessary Utensils
- A large pot for boiling
- Grater
- Sterilized jars (approximately 10)
- Lids for jars
- A towel or blanket for covering

Preparation

1. Preparing the syrup
Start by boiling the water in a large pot. Add the sugar and stir constantly to help it dissolve completely. Continue to boil over medium heat until the mixture becomes a slightly viscous syrup. This syrup will be the base of your jam.

2. Preparing the quinces
Quinces are not only delicious fruits but also rich in nutrients. They contain fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. So, while the syrup is boiling, wash the quinces well under a stream of cold water to remove impurities. Then, using a grater, grate the quinces. It is recommended to use a grater with large holes, so you get larger strips that will caramelize better in the syrup.

3. Boiling the quinces
Once the syrup is ready, gradually add the grated quinces to the pot. Mix well to incorporate them into the syrup. Let everything simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally. The quinces will start to change color, turning pink and glossy. This process may take about 2 hours, and the aroma will become more intense.

4. Packing into jars
When the jam reaches the desired consistency, it’s time to put it into jars. Use a spoon to transfer the hot jam into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are clean and dry. Close each jar with a lid, ensuring it is well sealed.

5. Cooling and storing
To preserve the jam, wrap the jars in a towel or thick blanket. This will help retain heat and allow the jam to cool gradually, thus developing its flavor. Leave them covered until the next day, when you can store them in the pantry.

Useful Tips
- Choosing quinces: Select ripe quinces with a deep yellow color. Greener quinces will not have the same sweet and aromatic taste.
- Testing the consistency: A simple trick to check if the jam is ready is to drop a small amount on a cold plate. If it doesn’t spread and holds its shape, it’s time to put it in jars.
- Spiced version: You can add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to the syrup for an extra flavor boost.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Why do quinces turn pink?: The pink color is due to the caramelization process of the sugar during boiling, which alters the natural hue of the quinces.
- How long can the jam be stored?: If stored properly, quince jam can last up to a year.
- What can I do with quince jam?: Besides serving it on bread, quince jam is wonderful in cakes, tarts, or even as a filling for pancakes.

Delicious Pairings
Quince jam pairs perfectly with goat cheese or feta, creating a savory contrast of flavors. You can also use it as a topping for yogurt or as an ingredient in various desserts, such as cheesecake or apple tarts.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits
A 100 g serving of quince jam contains approximately 250 calories. It provides a quick source of energy and, due to its fiber content, helps with healthy digestion. Quinces are also rich in vitamin C, which is essential for strengthening the immune system.

Personal Note
This quince jam recipe reminds me of the moments spent in my grandmother's kitchen, where every bite was a celebration of flavors. I love to add a few drops of lemon juice to the syrup to balance the sweetness of the quinces and create a perfect combination.

Enjoy every moment of the cooking process and savor the final result! Bon appétit!