sour cherry + raspberry + grapes

3-in-1 cherry, raspberry, and grape jam: an explosion of flavors and joy in every jar

When it comes to jam, nothing compares to a delicious combination of seasonal fruits. Today, I invite you to discover my favorite 3-in-1 jam recipe, a true symphony of flavors that combines tart cherries, juicy raspberries, and sweet grapes. It’s a simple recipe with an impressive result, perfect for enjoying on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for various desserts.

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

Ingredients

- 1 kg fresh pitted cherries
- 1 kg fresh raspberries
- 1 kg grapes (preferably blue or black for a more intense flavor)
- 1.5 kg sugar
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 packet of preservative (or salicylic acid)

Preparing the jam

Step 1: Preparing the fruits

Start by carefully washing all the fruits. The cherries need to be pitted, and this process may take a little time, but it is essential for achieving a fine jam without impurities. After pitting the cherries, gently mix them with the raspberries and grapes, being careful not to crush the fruits.

Step 2: Macerating the fruits

Place the fruit mixture in a large bowl, add half of the total sugar (750 g), and mix well. Let the mixture sit to macerate until the next day, allowing the fruits to release their juice. This is an important step that will enhance the final flavor of your jam. If you notice that the fruits have released too much juice, feel free to remove the excess and turn it into a delicious syrup that you can use for various desserts or refreshing drinks.

Step 3: Boiling the jam

After the fruits have macerated, transfer the mixture to a large pot and place it over medium heat. Boil for one hour, stirring occasionally. At this point, add the remaining sugar (750 g) and the lemon juice, which will not only add a pleasant acidity but will also help preserve the jam.

Step 4: Preserving

After an hour of boiling, add the preservative or salicylic acid, stirring well to ensure it is evenly distributed. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars and seal them tightly. You can place them in a warm steam to ensure they remain properly sealed.

Step 5: Oven method

If you prefer a less conventional method, you can prepare the jam in the oven at 180 degrees. In this case, you won’t need to stir constantly, and the jam will caramelize beautifully, giving you an intense flavor and rich consistency.

Helpful tips

- Choosing the fruits: Make sure the fruits are fresh and of good quality, as their quality will reflect in the final taste of the jam.
- Sweetening: If you like your jam sweeter, you can add another 300 g of sugar, but I advise you to taste it first to adjust the flavors to your preferences.
- Serving: It’s delicious on toasted bread, but you can also use it as a filling for cakes or pancakes. It also pairs perfectly with cottage cheese or yogurt.

Nutritional benefits

This jam is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cherries are rich in antioxidants, while raspberries and grapes contain essential vitamins and minerals for health. Moderate consumption of jam can provide a dose of energy and good mood, perfect for starting your day.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will add a caramelized note and a deeper flavor, but it may slightly change the color of the jam.

2. Can I add other fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with other seasonal fruits, such as peaches or plums, to create a unique jam.

3. How long does the jam last?
If stored correctly in sterilized jars, it can last up to a year, but it is recommended to consume it within a few months to enjoy its fresh flavors.

4. How can I restore the jam if it has thickened too much?
You can add a little hot water and mix well to achieve the desired consistency.

In conclusion, the 3-in-1 cherry, raspberry, and grape jam is a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but will also add a touch of joy to each day. Whether you enjoy it at breakfast or use it in various desserts, each jar will be a sweet memory of summer. So, put on your apron and let’s get cooking!