Green tomato jam
Green bell pepper jam is a delicacy that blends tradition with flavor, bringing a touch of sweetness to every jar. It is a simple yet special recipe that transforms these often-overlooked vegetables into a true culinary gem. Green bell peppers are actually unripe red peppers, and with this recipe, we can harness all their flavor. Let's discover together how to prepare this delicious jam!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 jars of 250 g
Ingredients:
- 50 small green bell peppers (preferably the prunisoare variety)
- 500 g sugar
- 200 ml water
- 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice
- a few drops of vanilla essence or 1 packet of vanilla sugar
Preparation:
1. Preparing the bell peppers:
Start by washing the green bell peppers thoroughly under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove any impurities or pesticides. Then, with a sharp knife, cut a small cap around the stem. This step is essential for easily removing the seeds. Use a teaspoon or a utensil handle to carefully extract the seeds, being careful not to ruin the shape of the bell peppers.
2. Blanching the bell peppers:
Place a pot of water on the stove and bring it to a boil. When the water is boiling, add the bell peppers and blanch them for 4-5 minutes. It is recommended to repeat this process three times to reduce the bitterness and prepare the bell peppers for the syrup. After each blanching, remove the bell peppers and place them cut-side down on a clean towel to drain well.
3. Preparing the syrup:
In another pot, combine the water, sugar, and lemon juice. Put the mixture on the heat and let it boil, stirring occasionally, until the sugar is completely dissolved and a thick syrup forms. It is essential to monitor the syrup's consistency, as a well-bound syrup will give the jam a pleasant texture.
4. Cooking the bell peppers in syrup:
Once the syrup is ready, carefully add the bell peppers. Continue simmering over low heat for 25-30 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally and skim off the foam that forms on the surface. This will ensure a clear and appetizing jam.
5. Adding flavor:
A few minutes before finishing the cooking, add the vanilla essence or the packet of vanilla sugar to enhance the jam's flavor. This detail will give your jam a unique and delicious note.
6. Bottling:
Prepare the jars by washing and sterilizing them. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by using an oven preheated to 100°C for 15-20 minutes. When the jam is hot, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, ensuring they are well-sealed.
7. Cooling and storing:
Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place to preserve their aroma and qualities.
Personal suggestions:
To add a touch of refinement, you can fill the bell peppers with walnut meat and a few strips of lemon or orange peel before placing them in the syrup. This will give your jam a complex flavor and will surely impress anyone who tastes it.
Nutritional benefits:
Green bell pepper jam is not just a treat; bell peppers are rich in antioxidants and vitamins, with a low calorie content. About 100 g of jam contains approximately 250 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. It is an excellent option to add a touch of sweetness to your dishes without feeling guilty.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use red bell peppers instead of green bell peppers?
Yes, you can use red bell peppers, but you will get a jam with a different flavor and color.
2. How can I keep the jam longer?
Make sure the jars are well sterilized and airtight. It is also important to store the jam in a cool, dark place.
3. What can I pair green bell pepper jam with?
This jam pairs perfectly with cheeses, especially goat cheese or cottage cheese. It is also delicious on a slice of toasted bread or in tarts and cakes.
Possible variations:
Green bell pepper jam can be customized to your tastes. You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves for an aromatic touch. You can also experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar, for a deeper flavor.
This green bell pepper jam recipe is not only a wonderful way to preserve vegetables but also an opportunity to bring a part of culinary tradition into your home. I encourage you to try this simple recipe and enjoy every jar full of sweetness. It can become a wonderful gift for loved ones or a little personal pleasure that brings smiles to your face every morning. Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 200 ml water, 500 g sugar, approximately 50 small green tomatoes (preferably from the variety 'prunisoare'), 3-4 tablespoons lemon juice, a few drops of vanilla essence or 1 packet of vanilla sugar.
