Sour cherry jam

Cherry Jam – A Fruity Delight for Loved Ones

Who doesn't adore summer when seasonal fruits showcase their sweetest aromas? Sour cherries, with their slightly tart flavor, are the stars of this season and offer us a perfect opportunity to prepare a delicious jam. Not only is it an excellent way to preserve fruits, but cherry jam also brings a touch of sunshine to every jar, making it ideal for accompanying pancakes, muffins, or even a slice of toasted bread in the morning. Let's explore the perfect recipe for cherry jam, step by step!

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Number of servings: Approximately 8 jars of 370g

Essential ingredients:
- 2 kg fresh sour cherries (washed, pitted, and stemmed)
- 1 kg and 800 g granulated sugar (for a sweet yet balanced taste)
- 2 packets of gelfix 1:1 (an indispensable aid for achieving perfect consistency)
- 3 vanilla pods (for an irresistible aroma)

A bit of history
Cherry jam has a long history, traditionally prepared in households as a way to preserve fruits for winter. This process not only helps prolong the shelf life of fruits but also brings joy to festive tables, transforming ordinary dishes into delicacies. Whether served with yogurt, as a filling for pies, or simply on a slice of bread, cherry jam is a true symbol of summer.

Preparing the ingredients
1. Start by washing the sour cherries thoroughly under cold running water. Make sure they are clean and free of impurities.
2. Use a garlic press to remove the pits. Place each cherry with the stem end facing up, then squeeze the handles of the press. This quick trick will help you save time and have the cherries ready for use efficiently.

Step by step: Cooking the jam
1. In a large pot, add the cleaned cherries. It is important to choose a pot of appropriate size to allow the cherries to cook evenly.

2. Mix the two packets of gelfix with the 4 tablespoons of sugar. This mixture will help bind the jam and achieve an ideal texture.

3. Add the gelfix and sugar mixture over the cherries and gently stir to combine. Here you can also add a splash of lemon juice if you want an even more balanced flavor.

4. Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to reach a boiling point. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat and remove the pot from the heat.

5. Add the remaining sugar and the vanilla pods (open them slightly to release the aromas). Mix well and put the pot back on the heat, boiling the jam for 1-2 minutes from the moment it reaches a boil again.

6. Once the boiling time has expired, take the pot off the heat and prepare the jars. Make sure they are sterilized before pouring in the jam to prevent contamination.

Packing the jam
1. Carefully pour the hot jam into jars, filling them to the brim. Ensure that no air bubbles remain, as these can compromise preservation.

2. Seal the jars with threaded lids and place them in a warm spot, covered with a blanket, to cool slowly. This process helps create a vacuum that improves preservation.

3. The next day, when the jars have completely cooled, you can move them to the pantry, where they can be stored for a long time.

Practical tips:
- Ensure that the sour cherries are as fresh as possible, as the quality of the fruit directly influences the taste of the jam.
- If you want a thicker jam, you can add an extra packet of gelfix.
- Cherry jam can be combined with other fruits, such as cherries or raspberries, to create an interesting and flavorful mixture.

Nutritional benefits
Sour cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, having beneficial effects on heart health and the immune system. They also contain fiber that aids in healthy digestion. This jam, although sweet, can be part of a balanced diet if consumed in moderation.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen sour cherries? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- How long can I keep the cherry jam? Typically, well-preserved jam can be kept for several years, but it is recommended to consume it within a year to enjoy its fresh flavor.
- Can I add other flavors? Absolutely! You can experiment with cinnamon, cloves, or even a little gin for added complexity.

Serving suggestions
Cherry jam is a perfect accompaniment for fluffy pancakes, creamy yogurt, or even as a filling for pies. You can also use it as a topping for ice cream or as an ingredient in smoothies for an extra burst of flavor.

Whether you prepare it for yourself or as a gift, cherry jam is an excellent choice to celebrate the summer fruit season. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let yourself be carried away by the irresistible aromas of this delicious jam!