Apricot jam with fructose

Apricot Jam with Fructose – a Healthy and Delicious Choice

Preparation Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour and 5 minutes
Number of Servings: approximately 10 jars of 400 g

If you are looking for a jam recipe that combines the delicious taste of apricots with a healthier alternative to sugar, you have come to the right place. Apricot jam with fructose will not only delight your taste buds, but it is also a suitable option for those who want to monitor their sugar intake, such as diabetics. Moreover, apricot jam is a wonderful way to preserve the flavor of summer, even on cold winter days.

Let’s begin the culinary adventure!

Ingredients

- 6 kg of fresh apricots
- 1 kg of fructose

Necessary Utensils

- A large pot
- A cutting board and a knife
- Clean glass jars (preferably sterilized)
- A wooden spoon
- A kitchen thermometer (optional but recommended)

Step by Step

1. Preparing the apricots: Start by washing the apricots well under cold running water. This step is essential to remove any impurities. Once washed, cut each apricot in half and remove the pits. Ensure the fruits are ripe, as this will influence the final taste of the jam.

2. Macerating the fruits: Place the apricots in a large pot and add the fructose. It is important to use quality fructose, as it will influence both the taste and texture of the jam. Gently mix the apricots with the fructose, then cover the pot and let them macerate until the next day. This waiting time will help extract juices from the apricots, making the jam more flavorful.

3. Boiling: The next day, place the pot on high heat and wait for it to reach boiling point. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium and simmer the mixture for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon. It is important not to let the jam boil too long, as this can affect its texture and taste. If you have a kitchen thermometer, you can check the temperature; the jam is ready when it reaches about 105°C.

4. Sterilizing the jars: While the jam is boiling, prepare the jars. If they are not already sterilized, you can wash them well with warm water and detergent, then place them in a preheated oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes to ensure they are completely sterilized.

5. Filling the jars: Once the jam is ready, fill the jars with it, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Seal the jars with the lids immediately to prevent oxidation. An interesting alternative I discovered is to wrap the jars in blankets to keep them warm, which helps create a better vacuum.

6. Cooling and storage: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. Apricot jam with fructose keeps very well, but it is recommended to consume it within a year.

Practical Tips

- Choosing the apricots: Choose ripe but firm apricots. Overripe apricots will not store well, and the jam may become too watery.
- Fructose: This is a natural sweetener, but keep in mind that it is about 1.5 times sweeter than sugar, so adjust the amount to your personal taste.
- Variations: You can add some spices like cinnamon or vanilla to add a surprising note to the jam. You can also combine apricots with other fruits, such as peaches or plums, for a unique flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Apricot jam with fructose is not only delicious but also healthy. Apricots are rich in vitamins A, C, and E, and contain antioxidants that are beneficial for skin health and the immune system. Fructose, being a natural sweetener, has a lower glycemic index than sugar, making it a better choice for those looking to control their blood sugar levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use another sweetener?
Yes, you can also use other natural sweeteners, but the taste and consistency of the jam may vary.

- How can I check if the jam has thickened?
You can do the plate test: put a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate and tilt the plate. If the jam does not spread too much, it is ready.

- How can I use apricot jam?
It is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and tarts. It can also be a delicious topping for ice cream.

Serving and Pairing

To fully enjoy apricot jam with fructose, I recommend serving it with fresh cheese or as a filling for pancakes. A cup of Greek yogurt with a layer of apricot jam on top is a simple yet elegant dessert.

Apricot jam with fructose is a healthy and tasty choice, perfect for anyone looking to bring a touch of summer into their daily life. Preparing this recipe is simple and will surely make you feel proud of the final result. Try it and enjoy every spoonful!