Quince jam

Quince Jam Recipe: A Flavorful Delight for Winter

Quince jam is a true delicacy, bursting with flavors and boasting a velvety texture, perfect for spreading on a slice of toast or using as a filling for pastries. This traditional, simple, and accessible recipe will bring a touch of nostalgia to your table, reminding you of the tastes of childhood.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60-70 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30-100 minutes
Servings: About 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 2.5 kg peeled and diced quinces
- 5 cups of water (each cup being 250 ml)
- 2 kg sugar
- Juice of 2 fresh lemons

Necessary Utensils

- A heavy-bottomed pot (to prevent sticking)
- A blender or a masher for the quinces
- Sterilized jars (about 10 jars of 400g)
- A wooden spatula
- A citrus juicer

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the Quinces
Start by washing the quinces well under cold running water. Peel them and remove the cores, then cut them into cubes. It's important to use ripe quinces, as they have a more intense flavor and a higher pectin content, which will help the jam set better.

Step 2: Boiling the Quinces
Place the diced quinces in a heavy-bottomed pot and add the 5 cups of water. Set the pot over medium heat and let it boil for 30 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent the quinces from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Towards the end of this time, the quinces will start to break down and become soft.

Step 3: Making the Quince Puree
Once the quinces are cooked, use a blender or spatula to mash them well, achieving a smooth puree. This will be the base of your jam, so make sure there are no large chunks remaining.

Step 4: Adding the Sugar
After you have the puree, gradually add the sugar and mix well. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 45-60 minutes. You'll notice the jam starting to take on a darker color and a thicker consistency. It's important to stir constantly to prevent sticking to the pot.

Step 5: Finishing the Jam
When the jam is nearly ready, add the juice of the 2 lemons. This ingredient will not only add a touch of acidity to balance the sweetness of the jam but will also help in its preservation. Let the jam cook for another 5 minutes, stirring carefully.

Step 6: Jarring
Meanwhile, prepare the sterilized jars. You can sterilize the jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or placing them in the oven at 100°C for 15 minutes. When the jam is ready, pour it hot into the jars, filling them to the brim. Place the lids on and turn the jars upside down to ensure a proper seal. Allow them to cool completely.

Step 7: Storage
Once the jars have cooled, store them in a pantry. Make sure they are in a cool, dark place to preserve their flavors for as long as possible.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

- Serving: Quince jam is delicious on toast, but it can also be used as a filling for pastries, gingerbread, or pancakes. You can add a teaspoon of jam to yogurt or cottage cheese for a delightful and healthy breakfast.
- Variations: You can experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon or cloves during cooking to achieve more complex flavors. Additionally, you can combine quinces with other fruits, such as apples or pears, for a different taste.

Nutritional Benefits

Quinces are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and have a high fiber content, making them beneficial for digestion. Additionally, quince jam can be an excellent source of energy due to its high natural sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What should I do if the jam doesn’t set?
If you notice that the jam isn’t setting properly, you can add a bit of pectin or continue boiling it for a few more minutes.

2. How long does quince jam last?
If stored properly, quince jam can last up to 1 year in the pantry.

3. Can I reduce the sugar in the recipe?
Yes, but keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps preserve it. A significant reduction in the amount of sugar may affect the texture and shelf life of the jam.

This quince jam recipe is not just a way to preserve fruits, but also an opportunity to create cherished memories in the kitchen. So gather your ingredients and enjoy this flavorful experience, full of taste and love!