Sour cherries for pies, in a jar

Sour Cherries for Pies, in a Jar: A Sweet Delight for Winter

Who doesn't love the delicious taste of sour cherries? These juicy and aromatic fruits, with a perfect combination of sweet and tart, can turn any dessert into a masterpiece. Preparing sour cherries for pies is a tradition passed down through generations, offering an efficient way to preserve the flavors of summer for the colder days. Here’s how you can prepare them, step by step, to enjoy throughout the year.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Storage time: 24 hours (resting)
Total time: 24 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 370 ml each

Ingredients:
- 2.5 kg pitted sour cherries (about 3 kg with pits)
- 2.5 kg granulated sugar

Preparation:

1. Selecting the cherries: Choose fresh, firm, and ripe sour cherries. Ensure they are not bruised or spoiled, as these can alter the composition's taste. It is ideal to use quality cherries, as they will directly influence the final flavor.

2. Washing the cherries: Place the cherries in a large bowl and wash them well under cold running water. This will help remove impurities and pesticides. After washing, drain them thoroughly.

3. Pitting the cherries: Using a special pitting tool or a simple toothpick, carefully remove the pits from the cherries. Be careful not to crush them, as whole cherries will look much better in the jar.

4. Mixing with sugar: Place the cherries in a large container and cover them with granulated sugar. Gently mix to ensure all cherries are evenly coated. Let them sit for 24 hours, stirring occasionally. This process will help extract juice from the cherries, forming a delicious natural syrup.

5. Preparing the jars: While the cherries are macerating, prepare the jars. Wash them well and sterilize them by boiling or running them through a dishwasher cycle. Ensure that the lids are also clean and dry.

6. Filling the jars: After 24 hours, the cherries should have released a considerable amount of juice. Fill the sterilized jars with cherries, leaving a little space at the top. Then, pour the formed syrup until the jars are completely filled.

7. Sealing the jars: Seal the jars with the sterilized lids. Ensure they are tightly closed to prevent air from entering. This will prevent bacterial growth and help preserve the flavors.

8. Storing: Place the jars in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight. You can also store them in the pantry. These preserved cherries will be good to use throughout the year.

Practical tips:
- If you plan to use the cherries for pies or other desserts, I recommend sweetening them even more with a bit of vanilla or cinnamon during the preservation process. These flavors will blend perfectly with the fruit.
- You can also try other sugar combinations, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar, for a deeper taste.
- Ensure that the jars are completely sealed to avoid fermentation. You can check this by pressing on the lid; if it returns to its original position, it means it is not airtight.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Sour cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (especially vitamin C), and minerals. They help strengthen the immune system and improve heart health. A serving of preserved cherries (about 100g) has around 50-60 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen cherries for this recipe?
Answer: Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before preserving.

2. How can I use the preserved cherries?
Answer: These cherries are perfect for adding to pies, pancakes, ice cream, or even yogurt. They can also be used as a topping for muffins or cheesecakes.

3. Can opened jars be kept in the fridge?
Answer: Once opened, jars should be kept in the fridge and consumed within a few weeks.

Personalized version:
For an even more interesting taste, you can add a splash of lemon juice over the cherries mixed with sugar. This will help enhance the flavors, providing a pleasant contrast between sweetness and acidity.

In conclusion, preserving sour cherries for pies not only brings a touch of summer to the chilly winter days but also becomes a delightful tradition that you can share with your loved ones. So, get to work and enjoy these delicious preserved cherries!