Rose jam

Rose jam is one of those delicacies that not only enhances desserts but also brings a touch of nostalgia and pleasant memories. This simple and refined recipe is an excellent way to transform delicate flowers into a sweet treasure that can be enjoyed on toast or in various pastries. Let's embark on our journey into the world of flavors, colors, and traditions!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 5 jars of 250 ml

Ingredients:
- 300 g rose petals (make sure they are edible and untreated)
- 1 kg sugar
- 300 ml water
- Juice from half a lemon or lemon zest for rubbing the petals

A bit of history
Rose jam has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures. It has been lovingly and patiently prepared by generations, often associated with significant moments in everyday life. Its unmistakable aroma and delicate color make it a perfect ingredient to add a touch of elegance to festive meals.

Step by step: how to prepare rose jam

1. Petal gathering: Choose roses with an intense fragrance and vibrant color. It is ideal to pick them early in the morning after the dew has evaporated to ensure maximum aroma. Gather about 300 g of petals, ensuring they have not been chemically treated.

2. Preparing the petals: Once you have collected the petals, cut off the whitish part at the base, as it can impart a bitter taste. Gently wash them under cold running water to remove any impurities.

3. Rubbing the petals: In a bowl, add the rose petals and sprinkle a little lemon zest or squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over them. Gently rub them with your hands for 2-3 minutes. This process will help release the aromas and maintain the vibrant color of the petals.

4. Preparing the syrup: In a large pot, add 300 ml of water and 1 kg of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the mixture starts to boil, let it boil for 10 minutes or until it becomes a slightly viscous syrup.

5. Adding the petals: Once the syrup is ready, add the rubbed rose petals to the pot. Gently mix to incorporate them. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the jam will begin to thicken.

6. Checking the consistency: To check if the jam is ready, take a drop of the mixture and place it on a cold plate. Let it cool for a few seconds and then tilt the plate. If the drop remains compact and does not spread, the jam is ready. If not, continue cooking and check again after a few minutes.

7. Jarring: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Moisten a cloth and cover the pot, letting the mixture cool for 10-15 minutes. Then, pour the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars. If you have made a thicker jam, you can put it hot into jars, covering them immediately with a lid.

8. Cooling and storing: Cover the jars with a clean towel and let them cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store the jars in a pantry, away from direct sunlight.

Tips and useful advice
- Choosing roses: Select roses with a strong fragrance, as the aroma will intensify in the jam. Jam roses are the best choice.
- Sterilizing jars: To prevent spoilage, ensure that the jars and lids are well sterilized. You can wash them in hot water or place them in the oven at 100°C for 15 minutes.
- Variations: You can add additional flavors, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to customize the jam. Also, try combining rose petals with other edible flowers for a unique taste.
- Pears and roses: A delicious combination is to add diced pears to the rose jam, which will give it an interesting texture and flavor.

Nutritional benefits
Rose jam is not only a flavorful delight but also has certain benefits. Roses are known for their high antioxidant content, which helps strengthen the immune system. Additionally, rose jam can add a note of elegance and refinement to festive meals.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use roses from florists? It is important to use roses that have not been treated with chemicals. It is best to use roses from your own garden.
- Does rose jam last a long time? If properly sterilized and stored, the jam can last up to a year.
- How can I use rose jam? It is delicious on toast, in pastries, or as a filling for pancakes. It can also be added to tea for a special floral aroma.

Serving suggestions
Enjoy rose jam on a slice of toasted bread spread with butter or use it as a filling for cakes and tarts. Another wonderful way to use it is to add it to Greek yogurt for an elegant and flavorful breakfast. Feel free to experiment and find combinations that delight you!

Now that you know how to prepare this delicacy, all that’s left is to enjoy its unmistakable aroma and the memories it will bring. Enjoy rose jam and let your imagination soar in the universe of flavors!