Sea buckthorn jam

Sea Buckthorn Jam: A Vitamin-Packed Delicacy

Sea buckthorn, this small shiny fruit, is known as the "winter's yolk" for good reason. Rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, sea buckthorn is a true treasure of nature. Making a sea buckthorn jam will not only bring a splash of flavor into your life but also add a boost of health. This simple and quick recipe for sea buckthorn jam will transform these wonderful fruits into a delight that you can enjoy all year round.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 4 jars of 400g

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 kg of fresh sea buckthorn
- 1 kg of sugar
- 3 cups of water (approximately 720 ml)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 vanilla pod

Preparing the sea buckthorn jam:

1. Preparing the sea buckthorn:
Start by washing the sea buckthorn thoroughly. You can use a soft brush to remove impurities. Choose well-ripened fruits with a uniform color, without spots or signs of damage. It is important to select them carefully, as the jam will taste better if you use only the best fruits.

2. Preparing the syrup:
In a large pot, add the 3 cups of water and sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir to dissolve the sugar. Add the vanilla pod split lengthwise so that the flavors are released into the syrup. Let it boil for 5-10 minutes until you obtain a slightly viscous syrup.

3. Boiling the sea buckthorn:
Once the syrup is ready, add the cleaned and washed sea buckthorn. Let everything boil over high heat for 15-20 minutes. You will notice how the sea buckthorn changes color, and the syrup becomes denser. This is the perfect moment to enjoy the aroma of the fruits combined with vanilla.

4. Adding lemon juice:
After the sea buckthorn has boiled, add the lemon juice and grated zest. This ingredient will not only add a note of freshness but will also help preserve the jam. Mix well and let it boil for another 5 minutes.

5. Bottling:
Prepare sterilized jars. You can do this either by boiling them or by placing them in the oven at 100°C for 15-20 minutes. Fill the jars with hot jam, making sure it is well sealed. Cover them with lids and let them cool to room temperature.

6. Storage:
Once the jars have cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. Sea buckthorn jam can be enjoyed on toast, in yogurt, or as a filling for cakes.

Useful tips:

- Variations: If you want to experiment, you can add spices such as cinnamon or ginger to give your jam a unique flavor.
- Nutritional benefits: Sea buckthorn is known for its antioxidant properties, being beneficial for the immune system, skin, and overall health. It is an excellent source of vitamins C, E, and omega-7.
- Compatibility with other dishes: This jam pairs perfectly with cottage cheese or goat cheese, as well as in cocktails or teas.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen sea buckthorn?
Yes, frozen sea buckthorn can be used, but make sure it is well thawed and drained before adding it to the recipe.

2. How can I check if the jam is ready?
To check the consistency, you can do the plate test: put a drop of jam on a cold plate and tilt it. If it does not spread, the jam is ready.

3. How long does sea buckthorn jam last?
If properly sterilized and stored under correct conditions, it can last up to a year.

4. What other fruits can I combine with sea buckthorn?
You can experiment with other fruits such as apples or pears to create a mixed jam.

The sea buckthorn jam recipe is not only a delicious way to preserve these wonderful fruits but also an opportunity to add a splash of health to your table. Enjoy every spoonful and savor the natural flavors it offers!