Sour cherry jam

Cherry jam is a delight that brings to mind sunny summers and moments spent with loved ones. This simple and delicious recipe will take you on a culinary journey, transforming tart cherries into the sweet gold of winter. Let’s embark on this culinary adventure, so let’s get ready!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400g

Basic ingredients:
- 4 kg pitted cherries
- 4 kg sugar
- Juice from 1/2 lemon (about 30 ml)

A few helpful things about the ingredients:
Cherries are fruits rich in vitamins, packed with antioxidants, and low in calories, making them an excellent choice for a healthy diet. Additionally, sugar helps preserve the jam, giving it a pleasant texture and intense flavor. It is best to use fresh cherries, but you can also opt for frozen cherries if fresh ones are not available.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cherries:
Start by washing the cherries thoroughly under cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Then, remove the stems and pits. This is where your trusty pitter will be extremely useful. If you don’t have one, you can use a small knife to remove the pits manually.

2. Mixing with sugar:
After cleaning the cherries, place them in a large pot and add the sugar. Let the mixture sit for about an hour, stirring occasionally. This step is essential as it allows the cherries to release their juice, which will help form a delicious syrup.

3. Boiling:
Place the pot over medium heat. If you have a stove, you can use this method to better control the temperature. Allow the jam to boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Don’t forget to skim off the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear and appetizing jam.

4. Testing the consistency:
After about 45 minutes, you can start testing the consistency of the jam. Drop a few drops on a plate and let them cool. If the jam does not run, it’s a sign that it’s ready!

5. Adding lemon juice:
Once you have reached the desired consistency, add the lemon juice and let the jam boil for another 2-3 minutes. This ingredient not only enhances the flavor but also helps in preserving the jam.

6. Bottling:
Once the jam has cooled slightly, fill the sterilized jars with warm jam. Make sure each jar is well sealed, then turn them upside down and cover them with a towel to cool slowly. This trick helps create a vacuum, thus extending the shelf life of the jam.

7. Storing:
After they have completely cooled, you can store the jars in a cool, dark place, preparing for winter. Cherry jam will be a perfect treat to add a special touch to yogurt, pancakes, or even desserts.

The story of cherry jam:
Cherry jam has a long-standing tradition in many cultures, often made during the summer to preserve the flavor of the fruits. It is a symbol of summer, offering a note of nostalgia in every jar. This jam is not just a dessert; it is a way to keep the memories of a perfect summer alive.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will give a deeper flavor, but the jam will have a darker color.

- How long can this jam be kept?
If properly sealed and stored under the right conditions, cherry jam can last up to a year.

- Can I add other fruits?
Sure! You can experiment with cherries or peaches to create delicious combinations.

- What can I do with cherry jam?
Besides enjoying it directly, you can use it as a filling for cakes, to make sauces, or even to prepare flavored cocktails.

Serving suggestions:
Cherry jam goes perfectly with cottage cheese or yogurt, but you can also use it to add a delicious taste to pancakes or crepes. Imagine it melting on a slice of toasted bread, accompanied by a warm tea - it’s a perfect combination for quiet mornings.

By experimenting with this recipe, you will not only enjoy a delicious dessert but also a moment of relaxation and pleasure in the kitchen. Now, let’s get cooking and turn those cherries into sweet memories!