Walnut jam

Green Walnut Jam – An Unforgettable Delicacy

Green walnut jam is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and with a rich history. This jam, with its unique texture and unmistakable taste, has been prepared by generations, becoming a symbol of summer and harvest. It is perfect for savoring on a slice of toasted bread or alongside fine cheeses. In this recipe, we will explore each step of the preparation, providing you not only with clear instructions but also useful tips to achieve a perfect result.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1-1.5 hours
Total: Approximately 2 hours
Number of Servings: 100-120 green walnuts

Ingredients:
- 100-120 green walnuts (before the kernel hardens)
- 1 kg sugar
- 0.5 liters water
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Optional: 1-2 sticks of cinnamon for added flavor

Preparing the Green Walnuts:
1. Cleaning the Walnuts: Start by cleaning the green walnuts from the outer shell. Use a sharp knife and carefully remove the green layer, ensuring you reach the white shell underneath. This is an essential part of the process, as the green shell is very bitter.
2. Soaking the Walnuts: Place the cleaned walnuts in a large bowl of cold water. Cover them with a plate to ensure they stay completely submerged. Leave them in the water for a day, changing the water three times. This step helps remove the bitterness and results in a more aromatic jam.

Preparing the Syrup:
3. Making the Syrup: In a large pot, combine the sugar with the water and lemon juice. Put the mixture over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. Continue to boil the syrup, stirring occasionally, until it begins to thicken. It is important to do the plate test: drop a drop of syrup on a plate and wait a few seconds; if it holds well, it is ready.

Cooking the Walnuts:
4. Cooking the Walnuts: Add the drained walnuts to the hot syrup. Simmer them on low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 1-1.5 hours. You will notice how the walnuts become translucent and absorb the syrup's flavor. If you desire a more complex flavor, add the cinnamon in the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Finishing the Jam:
5. Removing the Foam: During cooking, foam may appear on the surface of the syrup. Use a skimmer to remove it, ensuring your jam is clear and shiny.
6. Bottling: Once the jam is ready, take the pot off the heat and let it cool slightly. Fill sterilized jars with the jam, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them well and turn them upside down to seal. This simple trick helps prevent bacterial growth.

Serving Suggestions:
Green walnut jam pairs perfectly with aged cheeses or can be used as a filling for cakes and tarts. You can serve it alongside fragrant tea or coffee, creating a sweet moment of indulgence.

Nutritional Benefits:
Green walnuts are rich in antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. They also contain B vitamins and minerals such as magnesium and zinc, positively impacting overall health.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- What type of walnuts can I use? It is important to use green walnuts that have not yet hardened. They have a soft shell and a tender kernel.
- Can I use a different sweetener? If you prefer, you can replace the sugar with a natural syrup, but the taste and texture will be different.
- How do I store the jam? Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks. If well sealed, it can be stored at room temperature for several months.

Possible Variations:
For a more exotic flavor, you can add a splash of vanilla or grated ginger during cooking. Also, if you like a more sour taste, you can add more lemon juice.

In conclusion, green walnut jam is a simple yet impressive recipe that will bring a touch of nostalgia and flavor to any meal. By following these steps, you will enjoy a delicious preparation that will delight all your loved ones. So don't hesitate and unleash your creativity in the kitchen!