Quince jelly

Quince Jelly - A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Who doesn't love the enticing aromas of a jam or a well-known jelly? Quince jelly is a simple yet absolutely delicious dessert that reminds us of childhood and the goodies lovingly prepared by grandparents. This recipe not only combines the sweet taste with a slightly tangy note, but it is also an excellent way to utilize every part of the quinces, including the cores and seeds. Let's embark on this cooking adventure together!

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: Approximately 2 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 500 g of quince cores and seeds
- 250 g of sugar
- 300 ml water
- Zest of one lemon, cut into large pieces

A Brief History
Quince jelly is a traditional dish that has been appreciated over time for its unique flavors and gelatinous texture. Cooking with quinces has been an age-old practice, dating back to times when fruits were preserved for consumption throughout the year. Additionally, quinces are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making them a healthy choice for desserts.

Preparation Techniques
1. Preparing the cores and seeds: Start by peeling the quinces, removing the skin, and cutting the fruit into pieces. Do not throw away the cores and seeds, as they are key to achieving a consistent and flavorful quince jelly. They contain pectin, a natural thickening agent.

2. Boiling the cores: Place the cores and seeds in a large pot, add 300 ml of water, and let it boil over medium heat for about 30 minutes. This process will extract the flavor and pectin from the cores, and the resulting liquid will be the base for your jelly.

3. Straining the compote: Once the cores have boiled, use a fine sieve to strain the liquid. Make sure to press down on the cores to extract all the juice. This will be the quince compote you will use further.

4. Adding sugar and lemon zest: To the obtained compote, add 250 g of sugar and the lemon zest. Put it back on the heat and let it boil, stirring occasionally, until the mixture starts to thicken. This process should take about 20 minutes.

5. Testing the consistency: To check if the jelly is ready, you can do the drop test. Place a drop of jelly on a cold plate and let it sit for a few seconds. If the drop holds its shape and does not spread, the jelly is ready.

6. Bottling: Once the jelly has reached the desired consistency, carefully pour it into sterilized jars, filling them to the brim. Screw on the lid and wrap the jars in towels until they cool completely. This will help create a vacuum, ensuring better preservation.

Useful Tips
- Sugar: If you want a healthier version, you can replace sugar with honey or another natural sweetener. Adjust the amount according to your preferences.
- Variations: You can add cinnamon or cloves to give your quince jelly an extra flavor. These spices pair perfectly with the sweet taste of quinces.
- Serving: Quince jelly can be served as is, on a slice of toasted bread, or it can be used as a filling for cakes and tarts. It is also delicious alongside cheeses.

Nutritional Benefits
Quinces are rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, providing significant benefits for the immune system and digestion. This jelly contains no preservatives and is a healthier alternative to store-bought jams.

Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use unripe quinces? Yes, unripe quinces have a higher pectin content, making them excellent for making jellies.
- How can I store the jelly longer? Make sure the jars are tightly sealed and store them in a cool, dark place. The jelly can be kept for several months.

Quince jelly is an easy-to-make dessert that brings a touch of nostalgia and joy to every jar. Experiment with new ingredients and don’t hesitate to share the recipe with loved ones! Enjoy!