Quince jam with pumpkin

Quince and Pumpkin Jam: A Fall Recipe with a Touch of Nostalgia

Autumn is a magical season, filled with warm colors and inviting aromas, and seasonal jams remind us of moments spent with family. Today, I will guide you step by step in preparing a quince and pumpkin jam, a recipe that combines the natural sweetness of quinces with the soft texture of pumpkin, adding a hint of freshness with cranberries and goji berries. This jam can transform any meal into a feast and is perfect to enjoy with cheese or on toasted bread.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45-60 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 4 jars of 300 ml

Ingredients

- 4 large quinces (approximately 1 kg)
- ½ pumpkin (approximately 500 g)
- 1 kg sugar
- 300 ml water
- 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons dried cranberries
- 2 tablespoons dried goji berries

Necessary utensils

- A double-bottomed pot
- A sharp knife
- A grater
- A wooden spoon
- Glass jars (washed and dried)
- A cold plate for testing the syrup consistency

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients

Start by washing the quinces and pumpkin well. The quinces should be peeled, while the pumpkin can be left with the skin, depending on your preference. Use a sharp knife to slice the quinces thinly, then cut them into julienne strips. For the pumpkin, cut it into small cubes or slices, depending on the desired texture in the jam.

Helpful tips: Choose firm and fragrant quinces, as they will provide the best flavor. The pumpkin should be sweet and juicy. The type of pumpkin you choose will influence the final taste of the jam, so opt for sweet varieties.

Step 2: Preparing the syrup

In the double-bottomed pot, add the water and sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and let it boil, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens. This should take about 10-15 minutes.

Note: The syrup is ready when, if you place a drop on a cold plate, it forms a bead that does not spread. This is a simple trick to check the syrup's consistency.

Step 3: Adding the fruits

Once the syrup is prepared, add the sliced quinces and pumpkin. Gently stir to coat them in the syrup. It is important to skim the jam occasionally to remove any impurities.

Note: If you do not see foam, it is not a problem. It may be less foamy, depending on the fruits.

Step 4: Flavoring the jam

After about 30 minutes of boiling, add the cranberries and goji berries. These will not only add a splash of color but also a slightly tart flavor that will balance the sweetness.

Grate the lemon peel directly into the mixture, being careful not to include the white part, which is bitter. Squeeze the lemon juice and add it to the pot. Let it boil for another 5 minutes.

Step 5: Bottling

After the jam has boiled for 45-60 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Check the syrup's consistency again, and if it is ready, pour the hot jam into the prepared jars. Ensure that the jars are clean and dry, and if desired, you can sterilize them in advance in the oven.

Serving suggestions

Quince and pumpkin jam is wonderful on toasted bread, alongside butter or goat cheese. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or croissants. Additionally, it pairs perfectly with a cup of winter tea or mulled wine.

Variation tips

- Add nuts: In the last minutes of cooking, you can add chopped nuts for a crunchy texture.
- Enrich the flavor: You can add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves for an even more aromatic taste.
- Raspberries or blueberries: Replace the cranberries with raspberries or blueberries for a fruitier jam.

Nutritional information

This jam is a rich source of vitamins and antioxidants due to the quinces, pumpkin, and cranberries. A 100 g serving has approximately 250 kcal, making it a healthy choice for a sweet snack.

Frequently asked questions

1. How long does the jam last? The jam can be stored at room temperature for a year, but once opened, it is recommended to refrigerate and consume within 3-4 weeks.
2. Can I use another type of sugar? Yes, you can use brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor or even alternative sweeteners, but you will need to adjust the amount based on the type of sweetener used.
3. Can I use other fruits? Sure! You can add pears or apples to vary the flavors.

This quince and pumpkin jam recipe is not only simple but also full of flavor, bringing a touch of autumn into every jar. Prepare it with love and enjoy every spoonful!