Quince jelly

Quince Jelly - A Fragrant Delight

When it comes to autumn preserves, quince jelly is a true treat for the taste buds. This simple and flavorful recipe will transform fragrant quinces into a delicacy that can accompany both desserts and cheese platters. Cooking is an art, and quince jelly is a wonderful way to bring the essence of autumn to your plate.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400g

Ingredients
- 2 kg quinces (choose firm and fragrant quinces)
- 1 kg sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your preferences)
- 1 half lemon (to add acidity that will enhance the flavor)
- Lemon zest (for an extra boost of flavor)
- A pinch of salicylic acid (for preservation)
- Water (enough to cover the quinces in the pot)

Necessary utensils
- Large pot for boiling
- Grater
- Glass jars for preserves
- Strainer or cheesecloth (for straining)
- Wooden spoon

Step by Step

1. Preparing the quinces: Start by peeling the quinces with a sharp knife. Quinces are often covered with a layer of wax, so make sure to wash them well before peeling. Cut them into quarters, removing the cores and seeds.

2. Boiling the quinces: Place the peeled quinces in a large pot and cover them with water. Add the juice of half a lemon and a bit of grated lemon zest for flavor. Bringing the water to a boil will release the essences of the quinces, and the liquid will start to take on a reddish hue.

3. Boiling until juice is extracted: Boil the quinces over medium heat for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice that the water becomes increasingly colored. When the quinces become soft, they are ready for the next step.

4. Straining the liquid: Use a strainer or cheesecloth to strain the quinces. Make sure to extract as much juice as possible by gently pressing on the quinces to release the liquid. The liquid obtained is the base for the jelly.

5. Boiling the syrup: Return the extracted juice to the pot and add the sugar. Boil the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the sugar is completely dissolved. This is a crucial step, as a well-homogenized mixture will lead to a uniform jelly.

6. Checking the consistency: Continue boiling the syrup until it thickens and becomes viscous. A simple testing method is to place a drop of syrup on a cold plate and let it cool for a few seconds. If the drop holds its shape, the jelly is ready.

7. Adding the preservative: Once the syrup has reached the desired consistency, add the pinch of salicylic acid and mix well. Salicylic acid will help preserve the jelly for a longer period.

8. Bottling the jelly: Pour the hot jelly into prepared jars, filling them up to 2 cm from the top. Seal them tightly with lids and turn the jars upside down to create a vacuum.

9. Storing: Place the jars in a warm spot to cool gradually. Once completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. The quince jelly is now ready to be enjoyed!

Useful tips
- Choosing the quinces: Quinces should be firm and fragrant. A well-ripened quince will provide a more flavorful jelly.
- Sugar: You can experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar, to add a caramelized note.
- Variations: You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves for unique flavors. Additionally, a combination with other fruits can bring an interesting twist.

Frequently asked questions
1. How long does quince jelly last?
Quince jelly can last up to a year if stored correctly in a cool, dark place.

2. Can I make jelly without salicylic acid?
Yes, but salicylic acid helps preserve the jelly. If you prefer a version without it, consume the jelly within a shorter time frame.

3. How can I use quince jelly?
The jelly is delicious on toasted bread, but it can also be used as a filling for pastries or as a sauce for cheeses.

Nutritional benefits
Quinces are rich in fiber and vitamins, contributing to digestive health and being low in calories. Although quince jelly contains sugar, it can be a healthier option compared to other processed desserts due to its natural ingredients.

Personal stories
I fondly remember the moments spent in the kitchen with my grandmother, preparing quince jelly for winter. The sweet aroma of boiled quinces and our smiles as we enjoyed the final result are memories I cherish. I recommend making this recipe together with loved ones to create not only a delicacy but also unforgettable moments.

I hope this quince jelly recipe brings you not only a delicacy to your table but also joy and good cheer in every jar!