Sour cherry jam

Bitter cherry jam is a traditional preparation, rich in flavors and full of nostalgia, that will remind you of the summers spent with your grandparents. Making this jam will not only enrich your pantry but also transform a simple dessert into a flavorful experience. Moreover, it is an excellent way to preserve seasonal fruits, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the year.

Join me on a culinary journey to discover how to make the most delicious bitter cherry jam!

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of pitted bitter cherries
- 1 kg of sugar
- A splash of lemon juice (optional, for a more balanced taste)
- A deep plate for testing the consistency

Preparation Time:
- Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Waiting time: 12 hours (or overnight)
- Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
- Total time: Approximately 13 hours (including waiting time)
- Number of servings: Approximately 5 jars of 400g

Necessary Utensils:
- A large pot
- A wooden spoon
- A deep plate
- Sterilized jars (or an alternative preservation method)
- A clean cloth

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the cherries:
Start by washing the cherries under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove all impurities. Then, using a knife or a dedicated tool, carefully pit the cherries. This may take a little time, but I promise it’s worth the effort!

2. Mixing with sugar:
Once the cherries are clean, place them in a large pot and add the sugar over them. Gently mix to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed. Let the mixture sit at room temperature for 12 hours or overnight. This process will allow the sugar to dissolve and integrate with the cherry juice, intensifying the flavors.

3. Boiling the jam:
The next day, place the pot on low heat. It’s important to use low heat to avoid burning the sugar. With a wooden spoon, stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During boiling, foam will start to form on the surface. Don’t be discouraged; this is normal. Use a skimmer to remove the foam to achieve a clear jam.

4. Testing the consistency:
After 30-40 minutes, take a deep plate and place a teaspoon of jam on it. Let it sit for a few seconds, then lift the plate. If the drops of jam separate and fall at larger intervals, then the jam is ready. If not, let it cook for a few more minutes.

5. Cooling and storing:
Once the jam is ready, set the pot aside. Dampen a clean cloth with water and cover the pot. This will help maintain the flavor and freshness. Allow the jam to cool completely.

6. Bottling:
When the jam has cooled, carefully pour it into sterilized jars. Ensure that the jars are sealed tightly for better preservation.

Useful Tips:
- Buy fresh cherries: When choosing cherries, opt for the ripest and most flavorful ones. The color should be intense, and the fruit should be firm.
- Add lemon: A splash of lemon juice will not only balance the sweetness but also help preserve the color.
- Sterilizing jars: You can sterilize jars either by boiling or by washing them in the dishwasher on a high-temperature setting.
- Storage: The jam will keep well in a cool, dark place. Once opened, store it in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.

Nutritional Benefits:
Bitter cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and have anti-inflammatory effects. Consuming bitter cherry jam will not only delight your taste buds but also provide health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- How long does the jam last? If stored properly, bitter cherry jam can last up to a year.
- Can I add other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with other fruits like sour cherries or raspberries to create a unique flavor combination.
- How can I use the jam? It is delicious on toast, in yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and tarts.

Serving:
To turn bitter cherry jam into a real treat, try serving it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt. You can even add some nuts for a crunchy contrast.

Possible Variations:
If you want to add a touch of creativity to your recipe, you can add a pinch of cinnamon or a few cloves during boiling. These spices will add a warm and aromatic note, perfect for the cool autumn days.

Bitter cherry jam is more than just a simple preparation; it is a memory of warm summer days, the joy of cooking with loved ones, and the intense flavor of fresh fruits. So embrace the tradition and enjoy every spoonful! Bon appétit!