Watermelon Jam with Citrus

Watermelon and citrus jam: a sweet and tangy delight for any time of the year

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 6 jars of 250 ml

Who doesn’t love jam? It’s that indulgence that reminds us of childhood, of moments spent with family, and of the treats made with love. Today, I invite you to discover a special recipe: watermelon and citrus jam. This recipe not only has a sweet and tangy taste but also a fresh aroma thanks to the combination of watermelon, grapefruit, and oranges. With each spoonful, you will experience an explosion of flavors that will delight your senses.

Necessary ingredients:
- 400 g watermelon (without rind)
- 350 g red grapefruit juice with pulp (approximately 3 grapefruits)
- 250 g orange juice with pulp (approximately 4 oranges)
- 500 g sugar
- 1 packet of lemon salt
- 1 packet of gelfix 2:1 (or alternatively, 500 g sugar instead of gelfix)

Ingredient details:

Watermelon is a summer fruit that is not only delicious but also full of water, low in calories, and rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C. Grapefruit, with its slightly bitter and tangy taste, provides a perfect contrast to the sweetness of watermelon, while oranges add a note of zest and natural sweetness.

Step by step:

1. Preparing the watermelon: Start by cutting the watermelon into slices, then remove the rind and seeds. Cut the pulp into cubes and weigh 400 g. It’s essential to use fresh watermelon, as it will add an intense sweet flavor.

2. Preparing the citrus fruits: Peel 3 grapefruits and 4 oranges. Cut the peel of the citrus fruits, being careful to remove the white part, which can be bitter. Use a sharp knife to obtain the pulp from the citrus slices, keeping the juice that drains out. Weigh the pulp obtained from the grapefruit (350 g) and oranges (250 g).

3. Mixing the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the sugar with the packet of gelfix and lemon salt. Add the watermelon cubes, grapefruit pulp, and oranges, mixing well to incorporate all the ingredients.

4. Boiling the mixture: Transfer the mixture to a large pot and bring it to a boil, stirring continuously. This will help prevent the mixture from sticking to the bottom of the pot. If you notice foam on the surface, remove it with a spoon. Let it boil for about 5 minutes, stirring constantly.

5. Bottling: Once the jam is ready, pour it immediately into sterilized jars, ensuring there are no empty spaces. Screw on the lids and turn the jars upside down, leaving them for a few minutes on the lid. This step will help create a vacuum, ensuring that the jam preserves better. As they cool, twist the jars to evenly distribute the fruit pieces.

Practical tips:
- Ensure all ingredients are fresh for an intense and vibrant jam flavor.
- If you want a thicker jam, you can add another packet of gelfix or more sugar.
- Watermelon and citrus jam can be stored in sterilized jars for several months in a cool, dark place.

Possible variations:
You can experiment with other citrus fruits, such as lemons or limes, for an even more vibrant flavor. Additionally, adding spices like ginger or vanilla can bring an interesting twist to the recipe.

Frequently asked questions:

1. If I don’t have gelfix, what can I use?
You can replace gelfix with 500 g of sugar, but the jam will be less consistent.

2. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
A simple method is to drop a few drops on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and doesn’t spread, it’s ready.

3. What can I serve watermelon and citrus jam with?
It pairs perfectly with cheeses, on toasted bread, or even as a filling for cakes and pastries.

4. What are the nutritional benefits of this jam?
Watermelon and citrus jam is rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and has a low-calorie content due to the watermelon.

In conclusion, watermelon and citrus jam is not just a simple recipe but also a way to bring a touch of summer into every day. With each jar, you will capture the essence of fresh fruits and enjoy their unique taste throughout the year. Experiment, adapt the recipe to your tastes, and let yourself be inspired by the delicious flavors!

 Ingredients: 400 g watermelon 350 g red grapefruit juice with pulp - from 3 grapefruits 250 g orange juice with pulp - from 4 oranges 500 g sugar 1 packet of lemon salt 1 packet of gelfix 2:1

 Tags:  watermelon grapefruit oranges sugar