Red Mirabelle Plum Jelly

Red Cornelian Cherry Jelly - A Homemade Delicacy for Any Occasion

If you are looking for a quick dessert that adds a touch of sweetness and a note of elegance to your dishes, red cornelian cherry jelly is the perfect choice. This recipe, which I have cherished for over 12 years, is inspired by a renowned culinary magazine and is a true treat, not only for pancakes but also for cakes, ice creams, and even to enhance the flavor of your loaf cakes.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 4 jars of 400g

Ingredients:

- 2 kg of cornelian cherries (red or yellow)
- 2 liters of water
- 1 kg of sugar

Necessary Utensils:

- A large pot for boiling
- A sieve or cheesecloth for straining
- A blender or masher
- Sterilized glass jars (4 jars of 400g)
- A wooden spoon for stirring

A Brief History of the Recipe

Cornelian cherries, these small fruits with an intense sweet-sour flavor, have been used for centuries in sweet dishes and preserves. Native to temperate regions, cornelian cherries have always been appreciated for their versatility. Cornelian cherry jelly became popular in traditional households, being an excellent way to preserve fruits and delight loved ones throughout winter.

Step by Step: Making Cornelian Cherry Jelly

1. Wash the Cornelian Cherries: Start by washing the cornelian cherries well under a stream of cold water. It is essential to remove any impurities or pesticides that may be on the surface of the fruits.

2. Boiling the Cornelian Cherries: Place the cornelian cherries in a large pot and add 2 liters of water. Set the pot over medium heat and let the fruits boil for about 20-30 minutes until they become soft and easily detach from the pits.

3. Straining: After the cornelian cherries have boiled, use a sieve or cheesecloth to strain the juice. This step is crucial as you want to obtain a clear liquid without pulp. You can use a blender to puree the cornelian cherries before straining them, resulting in a richer flavored juice.

4. Boiling the Juice with Sugar: Put the obtained juice back in the pot and add 1 kg of sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. Place the pot on the heat and let it simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. You will notice foam forming on the surface; remember to remove it with a spoon to achieve a clear jelly.

5. Consistency Test: After about 30-40 minutes of boiling, the jelly will start to thicken. You can check its consistency using the "cold plate" method: take a plate and put a few drops of jelly on it, then place it in the fridge for 1 minute. If the jelly does not run and holds on the plate, it is ready.

6. Packing into Jars: When the jelly reaches the desired consistency, take the sterilized jars and fill them with the hot jelly. Make sure to leave a little space at the top for expansion. Seal the jars with the lids and let them cool completely.

Serving Suggestions

Cornelian cherry jelly is extremely versatile. You can use it to sweeten pancakes, as a topping for ice cream, or as a filling for cakes. It is also delicious on a slice of toasted bread, alongside butter or cottage cheese. An interesting variation would be to serve it with goat cheese for a savory contrast.

Variations and Practical Tips

- Use Yellow Cornelian Cherries: If you prefer yellow cornelian cherries, feel free to use them. The jelly will have a lighter color, but the taste will be just as delicious.
- Add Flavor: You can experiment with flavors by adding a few sprigs of mint or a slice of lemon during boiling for a more sophisticated taste.
- Nutrition: Cornelian cherries are a good source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Consuming them can support digestive health and the immune system.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can replace cornelian cherries with peaches, plums, or apricots to create an interesting jelly variation.

2. How can I store the jelly longer?
Make sure the jars are tightly sealed and stored in a cool, dark place. The jelly can be kept for up to a year if preserved correctly.

3. What can I do with leftover jelly?
If you have leftover jelly, you can use it to sweeten a sauce for meat or even to create a dressing for salads.

Red cornelian cherry jelly is more than just a simple dish; it is a story of taste and tradition, a way to preserve memories and share them with loved ones. So, put on your apron and enjoy the magic of cooking!