Yellow peach jam

Yellow Peach Jam: A Traditional Recipe with a Summer Flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 5 jars of 400g

Who doesn't love the sweet and fragrant aroma of yellow peach jam? This simple yet characterful recipe is perfect for preserving the essence of summer in every jar. Peach jam is not only a delicacy but also a wonderful way to enrich winter meals, bringing a ray of sunshine on chilly days. Let's embark on this delicious journey together!

Necessary ingredients

- 1 deep plate, heaped with peaches (approximately 1.5 kg of ripe but firm peaches; do not use juicy peaches)
- 1 kg sugar (preferably white sugar, but you can experiment with brown sugar for a more intense flavor)
- 300 ml water

Ingredient tips

Choosing the right peaches is crucial for achieving perfect jam. Look for peaches that are ripe but firm to avoid a runny jam. Yellow peaches are the most suitable, but feel free to combine them with other fruits, such as apricots, for a more complex flavor. Additionally, sugar will not only sweeten but also help preserve the jam.

Preparation technique

1. Preparing the fruit: Start by washing the peaches well under cold running water. Then, using a sharp knife, peel them. This step is important for achieving a smooth jam without impurities. Cut the peaches into small cubes, about 1-2 cm, to allow for even cooking.

2. Preparing the syrup: In a large pot, combine the water with the sugar. Place the pot over low heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves. You don’t need to boil the syrup too much, just enough to form a clear solution.

3. Adding the fruit: Once the syrup is ready, add the peach cubes to the pot. Gently stir to coat them evenly with syrup. Cover the pot with a lid and let the fruit simmer over low heat. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer to achieve a clear and attractive jam.

4. Cooking the jam: Let the jam simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the peach cubes become translucent and the syrup thickens slightly. If you prefer a denser jam, leave it on the heat for a few more minutes, but be careful not to overcook it, as it can caramelize.

5. Cooling and bottling: Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Cover it with a damp cloth and let it cool to room temperature. This step helps prevent mold formation. After it has cooled, pour the jam into sterilized jars, filling them up to 1 cm from the top, then seal them tightly with lids.

6. Storage: Keep the jars in a cool, dark place, and after opening, store them in the refrigerator. Yellow peach jam can be enjoyed for several months, but chances are it won’t last long!

Serving suggestions

Yellow peach jam is delicious on a slice of toast, but it can also be used as a topping for yogurt, pancakes, or muffins. Try adding it to various desserts, such as cheesecake or cheese tart, for a unique flavor. An excellent combination is with goat cheese, which brings a salty and creamy contrast.

Nutritional benefits

Peaches are rich in vitamins A and C, contributing to skin health and the immune system. They also contain antioxidants that help combat free radicals in the body. However, it is advisable to consume the jam in moderation, as it contains a higher amount of sugar.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other types of fruits?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits, such as apricots or plums, to create jam with different flavors.

2. How can I avoid sugar crystallization in the jam?
Make sure to mix the sugar well in the hot water and avoid stirring the pot with a spoon during boiling.

3. If the jam is too runny, what can I do?
If the jam hasn’t thickened enough, you can boil it longer, stirring constantly, until it reaches the desired consistency.

Possible variations

- Vanilla peach jam: Add a vanilla pod or a few drops of vanilla extract for a deeper flavor.
- Cinnamon jam: A piece of cinnamon stick added during boiling can add a warm and comforting aroma.
- Citrus jam: Add lemon or orange zest for a fresh note.

This yellow peach jam recipe is not just a method of preserving fruit but also a way to bring a touch of joy to your table. Whether you enjoy it at home or give it as a gift to loved ones, each jar of jam contains memories and stories from the warm season. So, let’s get to work and enjoy the sweetness of summer, even on the coldest winter days!