Acacia flower jam

Recipe for Acacia Flower Jam

Acacia flower jam is a true summer treasure, a recipe that transforms delicate flowers into a sweet and aromatic ingredient. This delicacy not only delights the taste buds but also brings a touch of nostalgia, evoking memories of blooming gardens and sunny days. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect jam, rich in flavor and with a velvety texture.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 55 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 250 ml

Essential ingredients:
- 250 g freshly picked acacia flowers
- 300 g granulated sugar
- 300 ml water
- juice of one fresh lemon
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar

Ingredient details:
Acacia flowers are what give the jam its unmistakable fragrance. Make sure to choose fresh ones, without spots or damage. Granulated sugar helps create the syrup and preserve the jam, while lemon juice adds a note of acidity that balances the sweetness.

Useful tips:
- Gather acacia flowers early in the morning when they are full of dew and aroma.
- Wash the flowers in several waters to remove any impurities or insects.
- Use sterilized jars to keep the jam longer. A simple method is to wash them in hot water and let them dry on a clean towel.

Step by step preparation:

1. Preparing the acacia flowers:
- Start by removing the acacia flowers from the stems. This step is essential as the stems can give a bitter taste to your jam.
- Once you have the flowers, wash them carefully in several waters. This ensures that the flowers are clean and ready to be used.

2. Preparing the syrup:
- In a pot, combine 300 ml of water with 300 g of sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir until the sugar completely dissolves.
- It will take a few minutes to reach a boil, but don’t worry. Once the syrup starts boiling, let it boil for about 25 minutes or until it thickens.

3. Adding the acacia flowers:
- Once the syrup is well thickened, add the acacia flowers. Continue to boil the mixture for 25-30 minutes. The acacia flowers will release their delicate aroma into the syrup, transforming it into a fragrant jam.
- It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

4. Finalizing the jam:
- When the jam is well thickened, add the lemon juice and vanilla sugar. These ingredients will enhance the flavor and provide a balanced taste.
- Let the mixture come to a final boil, then turn off the heat.

5. Bottling the jam:
- Prepare the sterilized jars. Fill them with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Seal them well with the lids and let them cool to room temperature.
- This jam will keep well in jars, in cool, dark places, for several months.

Serving suggestions:
Acacia flower jam pairs perfectly with fine cheeses like brie or camembert. You can also use it to sweeten teas or as a topping for pies and cakes. Imagine a slice of toasted bread spread with butter and topped with this aromatic jam – a perfect morning treat!

Possible variations:
- You can add a few fresh mint leaves to the recipe for a refreshing taste.
- Replace some of the sugar with honey for a more natural jam and a distinct flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Acacia flower jam is not only delicious but also full of nutrients. Acacia flowers have anti-inflammatory properties and can help soothe coughs. Additionally, sugar provides quick energy but should be consumed in moderation.

Calories:
A serving of jam (approximately 20 g) contains about 50-60 calories, depending on the exact proportions of sugar used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dried acacia flowers?
It is not recommended, as fresh flowers provide a much more intense taste and aroma.

2. What is the shelf life of the jam?
If stored under optimal conditions, the jam can last up to 1 year.

3. What other recipes can I try with acacia flowers?
You can make acacia flower syrup or even a fragrant liqueur using the same basic ingredients.

I encourage you to try this acacia flower jam recipe and share your experiences! Cooking is an act of love, and each jar of jam you prepare is an opportunity to create sweet memories. Enjoy the process and cherish every moment spent in the kitchen!