Quince jelly

Quinces, these fragrant and aromatic fruits, have a rich history in traditional cuisine, being used in various dishes due to their slightly tart taste and unmistakable aroma. Today, I invite you to prepare a delicious quince jelly together, a simple yet sophisticated dessert, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to your table or for gifting to loved ones.

Quince Jelly Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 5 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 1 kg small, ripe, yellow quinces, without blemishes
- 3-4 red tart apples
- 1 1/2 kg sugar
- 2 liters water

Preparation steps:

Step 1: Preparing the fruits
Start by wiping the quinces with a soft cloth to remove any fuzz on their surface. It is essential not to peel them, as the skin contains pectin, a natural ingredient that helps thicken the jelly. Cut the quinces and apples into quarters, making sure to remove any seeds.

Step 2: Boiling the fruits
Place the cut quinces and apples in a large pot, add the 2 liters of water, and let them simmer over low heat for about an hour. This is when the magic begins! The quinces will soften, and their aroma will start to fill the entire room. As a general rule, when you can easily insert a matchstick into them, they are ready.

Step 3: Straining the juice
Once the fruits are boiled, it's time to strain the juice. Use a sieve or cheesecloth, and be careful not to crush the quinces in the process; we want a clear and fragrant juice. Let the juice settle for 20 minutes, then strain it again, this time through a fine cheesecloth. This step is crucial for obtaining a high-quality jelly.

Step 4: Preparing the jelly
Now that we have clear juice, measure out 1 liter of juice and put it in a pot with 1 1/2 kg of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 20 minutes to dissolve the sugar. Then, bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. During boiling, it is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This will help achieve a clear and shiny jelly.

Step 5: Testing the consistency
Let the jelly boil until it thickens. A simple trick is to put a drop of jelly on a cold plate; if it forms a skin and does not spread, it is ready! This is the famous "drop on the plate" test that confirms the perfect consistency.

Step 6: Bottling
Once the jelly is ready, pour it immediately into sterilized jars and seal them. Ensure that the jars are airtight to prevent fermentation. Let them cool to room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place.

Helpful tips:
- Choose ripe, yellow quinces without blemishes for the best results.
- If you want a more aromatic jelly, you can add some spices like cinnamon or cloves during boiling.
- Quince jelly pairs excellently with cottage cheese or on toast for a cozy breakfast.
- It is a delicacy that can also be used as a filling for cakes or tarts.

Nutritional information:
Quince jelly is rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and contains antioxidants, benefiting the immune system. Additionally, the fiber in quinces aids digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use other fruits instead of apples?
Yes, you can experiment with pears or even berries, but the final taste will vary.
2. What should I do if the jelly doesn't set?
If the jelly is too runny, you can add a little commercial pectin and boil it again.
3. How long does the jelly last?
If stored properly, quince jelly can last up to a year.

Personal notes:
This quince jelly recipe reminds me of my childhood when I used to prepare this delicacy with my grandmother for the winter. The enticing aroma of quinces and the moments spent together are cherished memories. I invite you to create such unforgettable moments in your kitchen!

In conclusion, quince jelly is a quick, easy-to-make dessert but with a big impact. Add a touch of goodness to your life and enjoy delicious results!