Sour cherry jam

Cherry jam is a refined delight, perfect for adding a touch of freshness and flavor to your dishes. This simple and quick recipe, which combines the intense aroma of cherries with the sweetness of sugar, is ideal for enjoying on a slice of toasted bread, as a topping for pancakes, or even as an ingredient in various desserts. With a history that spans generations, jams have been a way to preserve seasonal fruits, allowing them to be enjoyed throughout the year.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- A deep plate full of cherries (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 1,250 kg sugar
- Juice of one lemon

Preparation:

1. Preparing the cherries: Start by selecting the best cherries. Ensure they are ripe but not too soft to achieve perfect jam. Wash the cherries well under cold running water, then remove the pits. You can use a clean hairpin or a special pitting tool. This step is essential, as the pits can give a bitter taste to the jam.

2. Combining the ingredients: In a 4-liter pot (it is important to use a large enough pot to prevent the jam from boiling over), add the pitted cherries and sugar. Gently mix to combine the ingredients, allowing the sugar to dissolve gradually.

3. Boiling the jam: Place the pot over medium heat. Alternatively, you can bake the jam in the oven, which will help achieve an even texture and prevent sticking. Stir occasionally with a wooden spatula to avoid burning. The jam is ready when, tested on a cold plate, a droplet holds its shape.

4. Adding the lemon juice: When the jam is nearly done, add the juice of one lemon. This ingredient will not only enhance the flavor but also help preserve the jam. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Cooling and packaging: Once the jam is ready, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. Then, carefully pour the jam into sterilized jars, seal them, and let them cool completely. It is very important to ensure that the jars are well sealed to prevent fermentation.

Helpful tips:
- Use fresh, seasonal cherries for the best results.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
- Experiment with flavors! You can add a hint of cinnamon or a few mint leaves during boiling for a unique touch.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How long does cherry jam last?
Cherry jam can be stored in well-sealed jars in a cool, dark place for about 1 year.

2. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used successfully, but you may need to adjust the cooking time.

3. What can I do with cherry jam?
Cherry jam is perfect for spreading on toasted bread, adding to yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and pancakes.

Pairings and serving:
Cherry jam pairs wonderfully with cottage cheese or goat cheese. You can create a refined dessert by serving it alongside vanilla ice cream or chocolate mousse. It adds an elegant touch to festive meals, alongside freshly made lemonade or iced tea.

The nutritional benefits of cherries include a rich content of antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, which can contribute to a healthy diet. Additionally, cherry jam has a unique taste and can bring a touch of joy to your days.

Enjoy the cooking process and the flavor of cherry jam! Each spoonful will bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones and transport you back to childhood memories when jam was a rare but much-desired treat. You may want to share this recipe with your loved ones so they can also enjoy the magic of cherries!