Rosehip jam

Rosehip jam: a rustic delight that brings warmth on chilly days

If you're looking for a jam recipe that will delight your senses and bring a touch of nostalgia, you've come to the right place. Rosehip jam is a traditional preparation, full of flavor and health benefits. It's perfect for enjoying in the morning on a slice of warm bread, as well as for sweetening cakes and pancakes. So, let's discover together how to make this delicacy step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30-60 minutes (depending on the consistency of the rosehip paste)
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: approximately 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 5 kg rosehip paste (to obtain this paste, you can use dried or fresh rosehips, but make sure they are well-ripened)
- 3 kg sugar (adjust the amount according to how sweet you want the jam to be)
- 600 ml water (if the paste is thicker, you can reduce the amount of water or even eliminate it)

Preparing rosehip jam:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Make sure you have all the ingredients at hand and that your jars are clean and sterilized. To sterilize the jars, you can boil them in water for 10 minutes or place them in a preheated oven at 100°C for 20 minutes.

2. Preparing the sugar syrup: In a large pot, add the water and sugar. Stir gently until the sugar is completely dissolved. This step is essential to achieve a perfectly bound jam.

3. Adding the rosehip paste: Once the sugar has dissolved, add the rosehip paste. Stir constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. It's important to use a taller pot to avoid splashes.

4. Boiling the jam: Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally. The boiling time can vary: for a thinner paste, 30 minutes is sufficient, while for a thicker paste, you may need to boil for 45 to 60 minutes. Check the consistency of the jam: it should be well-bound but not too viscous.

5. Jarring the jam: When the jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully pour the hot mixture into the sterilized jars. Screw the lids tightly and wrap the jars in blankets or towels to keep them warm. This step helps to create a vacuum inside the jar, thus extending the shelf life of the jam.

6. Cooling and storing: Allow the jars to cool slowly until the next day, when you can store them in the pantry. Rosehip jam will keep well for several months if stored properly.

Useful tips:
- If you like a more tart flavor, you can add a few drops of lemon juice during boiling.
- Rosehip jam pairs perfectly with cottage cheese or Greek yogurt, giving you a delicious and healthy breakfast.
- Try using the jam as a filling for pies or cakes; it will add a rustic and delightful touch to your desserts.

Nutritional benefits:
Rosehip jam is not only tasty but also packed with vitamins. Rosehips are known for their high vitamin C content, antioxidants, and fiber, making them excellent for boosting the immune system and promoting digestive health.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen rosehips? Yes, frozen rosehips are perfect for making jam, but make sure to thaw them well before turning them into paste.
- Can I reduce the amount of sugar? Yes, you can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences, but keep in mind that sugar helps preserve the jam.

Possible variations:
- You can add spices like cinnamon or ginger for a unique flavor.
- Try combining rosehips with other fruits, such as apples or pears, for a delicious mixed jam.

This rosehip jam recipe is not just a simple dessert, but a culinary experience that will remind you of beautiful moments spent with loved ones. Whether you prepare it for yourself or as a special gift for someone dear, the result will surely please everyone. Enjoy!