Rose jam

Rose jam - a fragrant and aromatic delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-5 jars (400g each)

Who can resist a jar of rose jam? This recipe will not only delight your senses but also take you on an unforgettable olfactory and taste journey. Delicate and fragrant, rose jam is a perfect choice to sweeten any meal or to add a special touch to your favorite desserts.

A brief story about rose jam

Rose jam has a fascinating history, having been cherished over time for its delicious taste as well as its aromatherapy properties. Roses, symbols of love and beauty, have been used for centuries in various cultures not only as flowers but also as ingredients in gastronomy. This simple recipe will allow you to contribute to this flavorful tradition.

Necessary ingredients:

- 250 g rose petals (choose edible roses, pesticide-free)
- 1 liter water
- 400 g sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a deeper flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon lemon salt (to enhance flavor and prevent oxidation)

Tips about the ingredients:

1. Rose petals: Use fresh roses, picked in the morning after the dew has evaporated. Avoid petals from gardens treated with pesticides, opting for organically grown ones.

2. Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can adjust the amount of sugar, but be careful to maintain a balanced ratio to achieve a good texture.

3. Lemon salt: This not only enhances the flavor but also helps maintain the vibrant color of the jam.

Preparation technique:

1. Preparing the petals: Collect the rose petals and remove the white part at their base, along with any leaves. This part can add a bitter taste to the jam.

2. Washing the petals: Wash the petals in a bowl of cold water to remove dust and impurities. Leave them in a strainer to eliminate excess water.

3. Mashing the petals: In a bowl, add a teaspoon of sugar and the lemon salt over the rose petals. Gently mash the petals with a fork or a hand blender until they start to release their own syrup. Avoid crushing them completely; you want to keep their texture.

4. Preparing the syrup: In a pot, bring the water to a boil along with the sugar. Simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved and the syrup begins to thicken. This step is essential to achieve perfect jam.

5. Adding the petals: When the syrup is ready, add the rose petals and continue simmering on low heat. Stir gently to avoid crushing the petals. Boil until the syrup reaches the desired consistency. Test the consistency on a cold plate - if it stays on the plate without running, it’s ready!

6. Bottling: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, making sure to fill them almost completely. Place the lids on the jars and let them cool to room temperature. Once completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place.

Serving suggestions:

Rose jam is perfect to serve with fresh cheese, on toasted bread, or combined with your favorite yogurt. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or rolls, adding a touch of elegance to your desserts.

Possible variations:

- Lemon rose jam: Add a few thin slices of lemon during the syrup boiling for a citrus note.
- Lavender rose jam: During the boiling process, you can add a tablespoon of dried lavender flowers for a warm floral taste.

Nutritional benefits:

Rose jam not only delights your taste buds, but the rose petals are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Consumed in moderation, this jam can be a healthier choice compared to other sweets, having a lower calorie content compared to other jams or sweets.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use rose petals from florists? Make sure they are edible and have not been chemically treated.

2. How can I keep rose jam longer? Once opened, store the jar in the refrigerator and consume it within a few months.

3. Is it possible to thicken the jam if it did not reach the desired consistency? You can boil the jam again, adding a little extra sugar and continuing to boil until it thickens.

So, grab your rose petals and allow yourself to create a jam that will not only delight the taste buds but will also bring a smile to your face whenever enjoyed! Prepare this rose jam and let yourself be carried away by its irresistible aroma!