Sour Cherry Jam

Bitter Cherry Jam – An Explosion of Flavor and Taste

Bitter cherry jam is a delight that will enchant all your senses with its intense aroma and sweet-sour taste. This classic, simple, and character-filled recipe can turn into a true culinary art in your hands. Whether you use it to sweeten a tart, to accompany fine cheeses, or simply to enjoy on a slice of freshly baked bread, bitter cherry jam is an excellent choice. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour
Total: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 8 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 3 kg of bitter cherries (pitted)
- 2 kg of sugar
- 1 lemon (medium, sliced)

Necessary Utensils

- Large pot for cooking the jam
- Skimmer
- Jars (sterilized)
- Wooden spoon
- Plate (for the consistency test)

Brief History

Bitter cherry jam has deep roots in culinary traditions, holding a special place in the hearts of many housewives. Bitter cherries, with their distinct aroma, have been used over time to combine sweet and sour, creating a perfect contrast. This recipe has been passed down from generation to generation, each bringing a personal touch, a secret ingredient, or a unique technique.

Preparation Steps

1. Preparing the Cherries
Start by washing the bitter cherries in several waters to remove impurities. Then, carefully remove the stems and pit the cherries. This process can be a bit tedious, but it is worth the effort for a fine jam. Pitted cherries are easier to consume and provide a pleasant texture.

2. Layering the Cherries and Sugar
In a large bowl, place the cherries in an even layer, followed by a layer of sugar. Continue alternating layers of cherries and sugar until all ingredients are used. Cover the bowl and leave it in the refrigerator or a cool place overnight. This step allows the cherries to release their juice, which will help achieve a richer and more aromatic jam.

3. Boiling the Jam
The next day, remove the bowl from the refrigerator and transfer the mixture to a large pot. Place the pot over medium heat. As the mixture begins to boil, foam will form on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove this foam, as it can affect the clarity of the jam. Add the lemon slices to the pot for a citrus note and an extra flavor boost.

4. Consistency Test
After about 30-40 minutes of boiling, it's time to check the consistency of the jam. Drop a few drops of the mixture onto a cold plate. If the drops hold together and do not spread, the jam is ready. If not, continue boiling and repeat the test every 5-10 minutes.

5. Bottling
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, adding the lemon slices as well. Place the lids on and turn the jars upside down to create a vacuum. Cover them with a blanket to keep them warm until the next day, thus aiding in better preservation.

6. Storage
After they have completely cooled, store the jars in a pantry, in a cool and dark place. Bitter cherry jam can be kept for up to a year, but it certainly won't last that long, considering how delicious it is!

Practical Tips

- Buying Cherries: Choose fresh, firm cherries without blemishes. Smaller cherries are usually more flavorful.
- Sugar: You can adjust the amount of sugar according to your preferences. If you want a more sour jam, you can slightly reduce the amount of sugar.
- Boozy Version: Add a little rum or brandy to the jam for an even more complex flavor.
- Serving: Bitter cherry jam is wonderful on a slice of toasted bread, but you can also use it as a filling for cakes or tarts.

Nutritional Benefits

Bitter cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, having beneficial effects on heart health and the immune system. They can also help reduce inflammation and improve sleep due to their melatonin content.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, you can use frozen cherries, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. How can I tell if the jam is well sterilized?
If the jars do not make noise and are sealed correctly after you turn them, the jam is well preserved.

3. What other fruits can I use in combination with bitter cherries?
Apples or peaches pair very well with bitter cherries, adding an extra note of sweetness.

Now that you know how to prepare this wonderful bitter cherry jam, all that's left is to get to work! Whether you give it as a gift or indulge in it yourself, your jam will surely impress. Enjoy it with pleasure!