Lemon jam

Lemon Jam Recipe – A Citrusy Delight

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 50 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4 jars of 300 g

Lemon jam is a treat that brings a splash of freshness and flavor in any season. This jam has a perfectly balanced acidity, ideal for spreading on a slice of toast or adding to desserts. Let’s get started step by step!

Ingredients:

- 4 medium lemons (approximately 600 g)
- 800 g sugar
- 1 liter water
- A pinch of salt
- Optional: 1 vanilla bean or a few mint leaves for flavor

Step 1: Preparing the Lemons

Start by washing the lemons well under cold running water, ensuring you remove any impurities. It is essential to choose fresh, unprocessed lemons to achieve a vibrant tasting jam. Set one lemon aside to use at the end for an extra flavor boost.

Step 2: Boiling the Lemons

Cut the other 3 lemons into quarters, removing the seeds. Place the cut lemons in a large pot and add 1 liter of water. Bring to a boil and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This process helps soften the peels, making them easier to process later.

Step 3: Changing the Water

After 20 minutes, drain the lemons and rinse them under cold water to remove excess bitterness. Add the lemons back to the pot, cover with fresh water, and bring to a boil for another 20 minutes.

Step 4: Making the Jam

Once the lemons have boiled again, drain them and puree them using a blender or food processor until smooth. In the pot, add the lemon puree, sugar, and a pinch of salt. If you choose to use the vanilla bean, slice it lengthwise and add it to the mixture. This detail will bring a sophisticated flavor to the jam.

Step 5: Cooking the Jam

Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly to ensure the sugar dissolves completely. Once the mixture starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes. It is important to stir frequently to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. The jam is ready when it becomes viscous and has a consistency similar to honey.

Step 6: Jarring the Jam

In the meantime, sterilize the jars. You can do this by placing them in the oven at 120°C for 10-15 minutes or rinsing them with boiling water. Once the jam is ready, pour it into warm jars, filling them almost to the top. Seal the jars immediately with the lids and let them cool completely.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Lemon jam is delicious on toast, but it can also be used in pastries such as tarts or cakes. I recommend trying it in yogurt or smoothies for an extra tang. You can also experiment with different flavors by adding herbs like mint or basil to give it a unique and refreshing twist.

This lemon jam will not only delight your taste buds but also bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and enjoy this simple and delicious recipe, perfect for any occasion!