Sour cherry jam

Sour Cherry Jam - A Traditional Delicacy

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 3 hours (in two sessions)
Total: 3 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars (depending on size)

Discover the joy of making sour cherry jam at home, a simple yet flavorful recipe that will turn every bite into a sweet memory. This recipe has deep roots in culinary tradition, lovingly prepared in many households, creating a bond between generations. Whether you enjoy it on a slice of fresh bread or use it as a filling for pastries, sour cherry jam will delight your taste buds.

Necessary ingredients:
- 2.5 kg sour cherries (pitted)
- 2.5 kg sugar
- Juice from half a lemon

Necessary utensils:
- A large, thick pot (ideal to prevent burning)
- Wooden spoon for stirring
- Jars with lids for preservation
- Plate for testing consistency
- Towel for wrapping

Step by step:

1. Preparing the cherries:
Remove the pits from the cherries and wash them well. Sprinkle the cherries with sugar in a large pot (which will be used for boiling) and let them sit overnight in the refrigerator. This step allows the cherries to release their juice, which will help form a delicious and fragrant jam.

2. Cooking the jam:
The next day, transfer the cherries and sugar to the thick pot. Place the pot on the stove and bring to a boil. Once the mixture starts boiling, reduce the heat to low. At first, stir constantly to prevent sticking, but once the jam starts to thicken, it’s enough to stir occasionally.

3. Adding lemon juice:
After about 30 minutes of boiling, add the lemon juice. This will not only enhance the flavor but also help preserve the vibrant color of the cherries.

4. Removing the foam:
During boiling, you will notice a pink foam forming on the surface. Although tradition says to remove it, if you have a small pot, feel free to take from the accessible areas without risking losing the cherries.

5. Testing the consistency:
After about 1 hour of boiling, turn off the heat and perform a consistency test. Place a few drops of jam on a plate and let them cool. If it thickens, the jam is ready. If you prefer a runnier jam, feel free to leave it as is.

6. Preserving the jam:
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, pour it hot into jars. A useful trick is to use the edge of a knife under the jar to prevent it from cracking. Fill the jars, then place the lids on and wrap them with a towel. Let them cool to room temperature, then store them in a cellar or a cool place.

Chef's tip:
If the cherries are already very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar to 2 kg. The jam will thicken as it sits, so don’t worry if it seems runny at first. Also, this recipe can be adapted by adding spices like cinnamon or cloves for a more exotic flavor.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
A serving of sour cherry jam (about 1 tablespoon) contains about 50-60 calories, depending on the sugar ratio used. Sour cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, having beneficial effects on the immune system and cardiovascular health. Moderate consumption of jam can provide an energy boost and a pleasant sweetness to your diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can sour cherry jam be used in other recipes? Absolutely! Sour cherry jam is perfect as a filling for pastries, pancakes, or even as a topping for yogurts and ice cream.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the jam? You can add a few drops of vanilla essence or a pinch of cinnamon for a more complex taste.
- What is the best storage method? Jam keeps very well in sterilized jars, in a cool, dark place.

Enjoy sour cherry jam, a treat that brings the flavor of summer into every jar! This recipe will enrich not only your culinary endeavors but also all the moments spent with loved ones. Bon appétit!