Wild cherry jam

Cherry Jam with Wormwood - A Summer Treasure

Who doesn't love cherry jam, a dessert that reminds us of warm summer days and the simple joys of childhood? Today, I invite you to prepare a captivating recipe for yellow-red cherry jam, with a splash of wormwood for a unique taste and a health boost. This jam is not just a delight but also a way to preserve the flavors of the summer season for the cool winter days.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Baking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: 10 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:

- 5.6 kg cherries with pits and stems (approximately 4.2 kg after cleaning)
- 4 kg sugar
- Wormwood leaves (to taste)
- A pinch of lemon salt for each kg of cherries

A Bit of History:

Cherry jam has deep roots in culinary traditions, being prepared for centuries in various corners of the world. Cherries have been cultivated since ancient times, and jam has become a popular way to preserve summer fruits. This preparation is not just a dessert but also a way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the Cherries:
Start by washing the cherries well under a stream of cold water. Be sure to remove any impurities. After washing, remove the stems and set them aside to dry. These can be used later to make diuretic teas, beneficial for health.

2. Pitting the Cherries:
Use a special tool to remove the pits from the cherries. This can be a time-consuming task, but it is essential for obtaining a fine jam. Take your time; each cleaned cherry will bring you closer to the final delight.

3. Preparing the Syrup:
After pitting the cherries, divide them into four large bowls. Add 1 kg of sugar to each bowl and cover them with a cloth. Let them sit overnight to release their syrup.

4. Boiling the Jam:
The next day, place the bowls over high heat. Wait for them to reach boiling point, then reduce the temperature to low. At this point, it is essential to skim off the foam that forms on the surface; this will help achieve a clear and fine jam.

5. Adding the Wormwood:
Once you no longer see foam, add a few wormwood leaves. These will add a bitter taste that will balance the sweetness of the cherries. Let it boil for 5-6 minutes, then remove the wormwood.

6. Checking the Consistency:
Add a pinch of lemon salt and check the syrup's consistency. Use a spoon: if the drops flow slowly, the jam is ready. If you prefer a thicker jam, you can let it boil for a few more minutes.

7. Bottling:
Prepare the jars: wash them well and dry them. Fill each jar with hot jam, then seal them tightly. Cover them with a cloth and let them cool until the next day, when you can store them in the pantry.

Serving Suggestion:

Cherry jam with wormwood pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread, butter, and a cup of hot tea. It can also be used as a filling for cakes or as a topping for ice cream. Don’t forget a glass of cold water or lemonade to complete the tasting experience.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

Although the jam is high in sugar, cherries contain antioxidants, vitamins, and essential minerals. Moderate consumption of cherry jam can provide benefits such as improving digestive health and reducing inflammation. Additionally, cherry stems, used in teas, have diuretic effects and can help eliminate toxins from the body.

Frequently Asked Questions:

- Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw them before use, and the boiling time may vary.

- How can I preserve the jam for longer?
Ensure that the jars are completely sterilized and sealed tightly. If you notice signs of fermentation, do not consume the jam.

- Can I replace wormwood with another ingredient?
If you don’t like the bitter taste of wormwood, you can experiment with other herbs, such as mint or basil, to achieve a distinct flavor.

Possible Variations:

For an even more interesting taste, you can add a splash of lemon juice or a few drops of vanilla essence during preparation. Additionally, you can combine cherries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a mixed summer jam.

This cherry jam with wormwood recipe is not just a way to preserve summer flavors but also an opportunity to express your creativity in the kitchen. So, dress in good spirits and let your culinary imagination run wild!