Sweet-sour plum jam with walnut core

Sweet-sour plum jam with walnut bits

Sweeten your mornings and delight your friends with homemade plum jam that combines the natural sweetness of plums with a crunchy note of walnut. This sweet-sour plum jam is perfect for toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for cakes.

Total preparation time: 8 hours and 10 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Baking time: 8 hours
Number of servings: 10 jars

Necessary ingredients:
- 10 kg plums (ideally, use 3 varieties of plums for a complex flavor)
- 400 g sugar (you can adjust the quantity according to your preferences)
- 1 lemon (the juice will add a layer of acidity that balances the sweetness)
- 500 g walnut bits (chopped finely for a pleasant texture)

The history of plum jam:
Plum jam has a centuries-old tradition, being an excellent way to preserve fruits for winter. Plums, rich in antioxidants and vitamins, have been appreciated over time not only for their taste but also for their nutritional benefits. This recipe adds walnut bits, a classic combination that enriches both the flavor and texture of the jam.

Step by step for a perfect jam:

1. Choosing the plums:
Choose ripe but firm plums. Summer plums, such as nectarines and fat tulips, are ideal. Each type of plum brings a unique flavor to the jam.

2. Preparing the plums:
- Wash the plums well under a stream of cold water.
- Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. This is an essential step to avoid bitterness from the pits in the jam.

3. Grinding the plums:
- Use a food processor to turn the plums into puree. This technique will help release the natural juices and facilitate cooking.

4. Mixing with sugar:
- In a large bowl, mix the plum puree with 200 g of sugar. Let the mixture sit for 30 minutes; this step helps extract the juices from the plums.

5. Baking the jam:
- Preheat the oven to 100°C. Pour the mixture of plums and sugar into a wide baking dish and place it in the oven.
- Let the jam simmer slowly for 8 hours. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

6. Adding the remaining sugar:
- About an hour before finishing cooking, add the remaining sugar. This will help thicken the jam and preserve it.

7. Finalizing the jam:
- When the jam starts to thicken, squeeze the juice from one lemon and add it to the mixture. This will enhance the flavors and extend the shelf life.
- Finally, add the finely chopped walnut bits. Mix well to distribute the nuts evenly.

8. Sterilizing the jars:
- While the jam is cooking, sterilize the jars. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by washing them in the dishwasher on a hot cycle.

9. Filling the jars:
- When the jam is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Place the lids on and seal them well.

10. Completing the process:
- Place the jars back in the turned-off oven for 10 minutes to ensure a good seal.
- Let the jars cool to room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place.

Useful tips:
- You can adjust the amount of sugar based on how sweet your plums are. If you prefer less sweet jams, start with 300 g and taste along the way.
- If you want to add a hint of flavor, you can infuse the jam with cinnamon or vanilla during the cooking process.
- Plum jam keeps well in sterilized jars for up to a year, but it is most delicious when consumed within the first 6 months.
- Serve plum jam with goat cheese or as a filling in cakes and pies for a delightful taste.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long is the shelf life of plum jam?
Once the jars are sealed properly, the jam can be stored for up to a year.

- Can I use alternative sugar?
Yes, you can use brown sugar or natural sweeteners, but these may slightly alter the taste and texture.

- Is it necessary to add walnuts to the jam?
No, you can omit the walnut bits if you prefer a simpler jam, but the crunchy texture provides a pleasant contrast to the sweetness of the plums.

Now that you have all the details to create a sweet-sour plum jam with walnut bits, all that’s left is to get started! This recipe will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia and warmth to every jar. Enjoy it with a cup of tea or use it as a topping for your favorite treats. Bon appétit!