Raspberry jam

Raspberry Jam: A Delicious and Simple Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Who doesn't love the sweet and fresh aroma of raspberries? This raspberry jam is perfect for bringing a touch of summer into every day of the year. Whether you serve it on a slice of fresh bread, as a filling for pastries, or simply as a topping for yogurt, this recipe won't disappoint. Let's get started!

Total preparation time: 24 hours (including 1 hour of cooking)
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:
- A deep plate full of raspberries (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 kg sugar

Necessary tools:
- A large pot
- A wooden spoon
- A deep plate (to check the consistency)
- Sterilized jars for storage

1. Preparing the raspberries:
The first step is, of course, to gather the raspberries. If you have a garden, that's even better! Carefully select the fruits: they should be ripe but not too soft to avoid spoilage. The ideal fruits are juicy but maintain their shape. Once you have gathered the raspberries, gently wash them under cold running water, taking care not to crush them.

2. Macerating the raspberries:
Place the raspberries in a large pot and add the sugar. Gently stir to combine the ingredients. This maceration process is essential as it helps the raspberries release their juice, creating a flavorful base for the jam. Cover the pot with a lid or plastic wrap and let it sit overnight. During this time, the raspberries will absorb the sugar and release a considerable amount of juice.

3. Cooking:
The next day, place the pot over low heat and let the raspberries simmer gently. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Along the way, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a wooden spoon to remove it, as it can affect the final texture of the jam.

4. Checking the consistency:
After about 30-45 minutes of cooking, it’s time to check if the jam has reached the desired consistency. Take a spoonful of the mixture and place a few drops on a cold plate. If the drops hold their shape and don’t spread quickly, the jam is ready. If not, let it cook for a few more minutes and repeat the test.

5. Cooling:
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it cool at room temperature for a few hours. This step helps stabilize the flavors and improve the texture.

6. Jarring:
After it has cooled, pour the jam into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are completely clean and dry. Seal them tightly with lids and label them with the date and contents. Store them in a cool, dark place, like a pantry.

Practical tips:
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar to 800 g. Raspberries are already sweet, so it can be adjusted to your taste.
- Experiment with additional flavors! You can add half a vanilla bean or a few mint leaves during cooking for a distinct note.
- Always check the jars for sealing. If the lid doesn’t “pop” when pressed, the jam won’t be preserved properly.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving of raspberry jam (approximately 20 g) contains about 50 calories. Raspberries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, and fiber, making them a healthy choice for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen raspberries?
Yes, frozen raspberries are an excellent option! Just make sure to let them thaw completely before using them.

2. How can I use this jam?
Raspberry jam is versatile! Use it on toast, in yogurt, as a filling for pancakes or pastries, or even as a topping for ice cream.

3. How long does the jam last?
If properly sterilized and stored under the right conditions, raspberry jam can last up to a year.

Delicious pairings:
- Serve raspberry jam with goat cheese on a crunchy toast.
- It offers a pleasant contrast with vanilla ice cream or creamy cheesecake.
- Together with a cup of green tea, the jam will create a unique culinary experience.

A personal suggestion: I love to sprinkle some chopped toasted nuts on top of the jam when serving it on yogurt. This adds a crunchy texture and a subtle flavor, turning a simple breakfast into a special treat.

I hope this raspberry jam recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and encourages you to experiment with fresh raspberries! Each jar of jam is a memory of summer that you can savor whenever you need a touch of sunshine on your plate. Enjoy!