Silvoita in the cauldron

Plum Silvoita – A Delicacy Cooked with Love

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 days (approximately 10 hours of actual boiling over two afternoons)
Total: 2 days
Number of servings: Countless, depending on usage

Plum silvoita, a sweet-tart treat made from boiled plums, is a traditional recipe passed down through generations, retaining its charm and flavor. It is not just a simple dish, but a vivid memory of times when communities gathered to create delicacies together.

Necessary ingredients:

- 30 kg ripe bistrite plums
- 3 kg sugar
- Oil for greasing the cauldron

Ingredient details:

Bistrite plums, with their fleshy and aromatic pulp, are ideal for making silvoita. The dark color and intense aroma of these plums will give the dish a special taste. It is important to choose well-ripened plums, as they will contribute to the natural sweetness of the silvoita. Sugar will help preserve the silvoita, giving it a jam-like texture. Oil will prevent the mixture from sticking to the cauldron, facilitating the cooking process.

Step by step: Preparing Silvoita

1. Washing and preparing the plums: Start by washing the plums well under a stream of cold water. It is essential to remove any impurities.

2. Removing the pits: Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. This step is crucial, as the pits could affect the texture and taste of the silvoita.

3. Heating the cauldron: Take a copper cauldron and grease it with oil. This will prevent the mixture from sticking to the walls of the cauldron.

4. Boiling the plums: Place the plums in the cauldron and begin to boil them on low heat. The process will take time, as the plums need to break down and form a homogeneous paste. Make sure to stir constantly to avoid sticking.

5. Adding the sugar: Once the plums have turned into a paste, add the sugar and continue to stir. Patience is the key to success in this recipe! You may need to boil the mixture for 8-10 hours, so prepare for a lengthy task.

6. Checking the consistency: Silvoita is ready when it has a consistency similar to that of jam. You can check this by taking a spoonful of the mixture and letting it drip. If drops form, it is a sign that the silvoita is almost ready.

7. Cooling and storing: Once the silvoita is ready, let it cool to room temperature, then pour it into clean, dry jars. Seal them well and store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical tips:

- Patience: This dish requires time and patience, but the result will be worth the effort.
- Stirring technique: If you have someone to help you, take turns stirring. If not, a brilliant idea is to use a hand mixer while stirring. It may not be as traditional, but it will save you a lot of work!
- Uses: Plum silvoita can be used in various dishes: pies, pancakes, dumplings, or simply as a topping for yogurt. A delicious combination is with polenta, a dish that adds a rustic and nostalgic touch.

Possible variations:

- You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves to give the silvoita an extra flavor.
- If you like sweeter combinations, you can use a mix of plums and apples.
- Silvoita can also be made with other types of fruits, such as sour cherries or apricots, to diversify the taste.

Nutritional benefits:

Plum silvoita is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making it an excellent source of fiber. Consuming silvoita can aid digestion and support immune system health. Additionally, plums are known for their laxative effects, making them a beneficial ingredient for health.

Personal stories:

When I was a child, I would sit in the kitchen with my grandmother while we prepared silvoita. I remember how our whole family would gather, and the sweet smell of boiling plums would bring smiles to our faces. She would tell us how, in simpler times, neighbors would come together to make silvoita, joining forces to create a delicacy that would last through the winter. This sense of community and sharing recipes is what makes silvoita so special.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use frozen plums? Yes, you can use frozen plums, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before using.
- How long does silvoita last? If stored properly, silvoita can last up to a year.
- Is it possible to add more sugar? Of course! Adjust the amount of sugar according to your sweetness preferences.

In conclusion, plum silvoita is not just a recipe, but a tradition full of memories and flavor. Whether you enjoy it on a slice of bread with lard or accompanying various dishes, each serving will bring with it a piece of your family’s story. Happy cooking and enjoy every moment!