Peach jam

Peach Jam: The Delight of Summer Preserved for Winter

Who doesn't love the sweet and intense aroma of fresh peaches? This peach jam is not only a wonderful way to preserve the essence of summer but also a delicacy you can enjoy all year round. Imagine on a cold winter day, opening a jar of peach jam and savoring the sweet and fragrant taste that takes you back to the summer sun. Let's see how we can transform these juicy fruits into a delicious jam!

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total: Approximately 55 minutes
Number of Servings: 2 jars (1 large and 1 small)

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg fresh peaches (weighed without pits) or 10 large peaches
- 500 g sugar (or according to your preferences)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the peaches:
Start by washing the peaches under cold running water to remove any impurities. Then, remove the pits and cut the peaches into smaller cubes or strips, depending on your preference. A popular option is to cut them into cubes of about 1-2 cm.

2. Macerate the peaches:
Place the peach cubes in a large pot and cover them with sugar. It is important for the peaches to be well covered so that the sugar helps to extract the juice from the fruit. Cover the pot and let it sit overnight at room temperature. This step is essential for obtaining a more concentrated jam with a more intense flavor.

3. Boiling the jam:
The next day, put the pot on low heat. Stir occasionally to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you notice foam on the surface, feel free to remove it with a spoon. This will help achieve a clearer and finer jam. Continue boiling the mixture until the syrup thickens (about 25 minutes). You can check the consistency of the jam with a simple test: put a drop on a cold plate and see if it holds its shape.

4. Jarring the jam:
Once the jam is ready, remove the pot from the heat and pour the hot jam into sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are clean and dry. Put the lids on immediately after filling and turn the jars upside down to create a vacuum. This will help preserve the jam for a longer period.

5. Storage:
After the jars have completely cooled, label them with the preparation date and store them in a cool, dark place. Now you have aromatic peach jam that you can use for breakfast, in cakes, or as a filling for desserts.

Practical Tips:
- If you want a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar. A delicious option is to replace part of the sugar with honey or natural sweeteners.
- You can add spices like cinnamon or vanilla to give the jam a more complex flavor.
- Make sure the jars are well sterilized to prevent the jam from fermenting. A simple method is to boil them in water for 10 minutes.

Nutritional Benefits:
Peaches are an excellent source of vitamins A and C, antioxidants, and fiber. Consuming peach jam in moderation can provide an energy boost and a nutrient intake, especially in the cold season.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- How can I check if the jam is ready? You can do the plate test: put a drop of jam on a cold plate, if it holds its shape and doesn't run, it's ready.
- Can peach jam be frozen? Yes, you can freeze the jam, but it is recommended to use jars or containers that allow for expansion.

Serving Suggestions:
This peach jam pairs perfectly with toast, pancakes, or yogurt. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or pastries. I recommend serving it alongside a fruit tea or a cold lemonade to create a moment of indulgence.

Possible Variations:
- Peach and Apricot Jam: You can combine peaches with apricots for a jam with a more complex flavor.
- Mint Jam: Add fresh mint leaves while boiling to give a refreshing note.

Transform this simple recipe into a family tradition, enjoying each jar of peach jam as a gift of summer, preserved for the cold days. Enjoy your meal!