The Delight of Autumn

Apple and Quince Jam with Nuts and Raisins

Autumn brings us wonderful gifts from gardens and orchards, and apple and quince jam is one of those preparations that delights our senses and fills our pantries with enticing aromas. This simple and flavorful recipe is perfect for preserving the essence of autumn in jars. Whether you choose to serve it on a slice of toasted bread or use it as a filling for pastries, this jam will surely become one of your favorites.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 6 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 1 kg of quinces (approximately 3-4 large quinces)
- 1 kg of apples (preferably tart apples, such as Granny Smith)
- 300 g of dates (pitted, chopped)
- 150 g of raisins
- 100 g of nuts (coarsely chopped)
- 1 kg of sugar (or less, depending on preference)
- Juice of one lemon
- Half a teaspoon of cinnamon (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preparing the ingredients
Wash the apples and quinces well under cold running water. Peel them, remove the seeds, and cut them into cubes. It is important to use well-ripened quinces, as they will add an intense flavor to your jam.

2. Macerating
In a large bowl, add the apple and quince cubes, sugar, dates, and raisins. Mix well so that the sugar is evenly distributed. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit for an hour. This step allows the fruits to release their juice, facilitating the subsequent cooking.

3. Boiling
After the mixture has macerated, pour it into a large pot and place it over low heat. Cook the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces by half. This process may take about 30-40 minutes, depending on the amount of juice released by the fruits.

4. Adding nuts and spices
When the jam has reduced, add the chopped nuts, lemon juice, and cinnamon. Mix well and let it boil for another 10 minutes. The nuts add a crunchy texture, while the lemon balances the sweetness of the jam.

5. Bottling
Check the consistency of the jam. If it is too liquid, let it cook for a few more minutes. When ready, pour the hot jam into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are well sealed and let them cool to room temperature.

Practical Tips

- Sterilizing jars: It is essential to sterilize the jars to prevent bacteria growth. You can do this by boiling or placing them in the oven at 120°C for 15-20 minutes.
- Variations: You can experiment with various ingredients. For example, add grated ginger for an extra flavor or replace nuts with almonds.
- Serving: Apple and quince jam is delicious on toasted bread, but you can also use it as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or pastries.

Nutritional Benefits

Apple and quince jam is a rich source of fiber, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and antioxidants. Quinces are known for their beneficial effects on digestion, while nuts add healthy fats and protein. Additionally, this jam can be a healthier alternative to processed sweets.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use other fruits?
Yes, you can combine apples with pears or plums for a different flavor.

- How can I store the jam longer?
Make sure the jars are well sealed and store them in a cool, dark place.

- How long does the jam last?
If properly preserved, the jam can last up to a year.

A Personal Note

This apple and quince jam recipe reminds me of my childhood when my grandmother would prepare jams and preserves for winter. The smell of the cooked fruits in the kitchen was a true celebration of autumn, and each jar was filled with love and memories. I recommend trying this recipe not only for its taste but also to create those special moments around the table.

Now that you are ready to make this delicious jam, don’t forget to enjoy every step of the process. Cooking is an art, and each recipe has a story to tell. Savor every moment!