Sour cherries for cakes

Sugar Preserved Sour Cherries - A Sweet and Aromatic Delicacy

I invite you to discover a simple yet refined recipe for preserving delicious sour cherries. This preparation will not only remind you of warm summer days but will also provide you with an excellent way to enjoy their flavor throughout the year. The preparation of preserved sour cherries is a tradition passed down through generations, bringing with it not only fresh taste but also precious memories.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Waiting time: 24 hours
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: Depends on the size of the jars used, approximately 6-8 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:
- 4 kg fresh sour cherries
- 3.5 kg sugar
- 2 packets of preservative (optional, but recommended for longer shelf life)

Ingredient details:
Sour cherries are fruits rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are known for their antioxidant properties. Choose ripe but firm cherries to ensure that the final result will be sweet and aromatic. Sugar not only adds sweetness but also helps preserve the fruit by preventing bacterial growth. The preservative is an optional ingredient but will help keep the cherries fresh for a longer period.

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the cherries: Start by washing the cherries well under a stream of cold water. This step is essential to remove any impurities or pesticides. After washing, remove the stems if necessary and let the cherries drain well in a colander or basin.

2. Pitting the cherries: Use a special pitting tool, or if you don’t have one, you can use a simple fork. Be careful not to damage the flesh of the cherries in this process. This step may take a little time, but the effort is worth it!

3. Layering the cherries and sugar: Choose a large bowl or basin and start layering a layer of cherries followed by a layer of sugar. Continue alternating layers until the cherries are finished. Make sure the last layer is sugar. Cover the bowl with a lid or a clean towel and let it sit at room temperature for 24 hours. During this time, the sugar will dissolve and form a delicious syrup.

4. Adding the preservative: After 24 hours, when the sugar has completely dissolved, add the packets of preservative. Stir gently to ensure it is evenly distributed.

5. Filling the jars: Prepare the jars by washing them with warm soapy water, followed by a rinse with hot water to sterilize. Place the cherries in the jars, filling them with the syrup formed. Ensure that each jar has a balanced amount of fruit and syrup.

6. Sealing the jars: Put the lids on the jars, making sure they are tightly closed to prevent air from entering. You can then label them with the date and contents to remember when you prepared them.

7. Storing: Place the jars in a cool, dark place. The preserved cherries will be ready to enjoy after a few days, but it’s best to wait a few weeks for the flavors to develop.

Helpful tips:
- You can add a little lemon juice to the syrup for a tart note that will balance the sweetness.
- If you enjoy bolder flavors, try adding a few mint leaves or a vanilla pod to the jars.
- Make sure the jars are completely dry before filling them to avoid mold development.

Nutritional benefits: Sour cherries are rich in vitamins A and C, low in calories, and an excellent source of antioxidants. These fruits help maintain immune system health and have anti-inflammatory effects.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen sour cherries? Yes, frozen sour cherries can be used, but it’s important to thaw and drain them well before using.
- How long can I keep preserved cherries? If stored properly, preserved cherries can last up to a year.
- What can I do with preserved cherries? You can use preserved cherries to make pies, cakes, or sauces for ice cream. They are also delicious added to yogurt or cereal.

Combine these preserved cherries with creamy yogurt or prepare a quick dessert with cottage cheese and biscuits. You can even add them to a chocolate tart for a delicious contrast.

I hope I have inspired you to try this preserved cherry recipe! Each jar will be a sweet reminder of summers spent with loved ones. Bon appétit!