CHERRY GEM

Delicious Cherry Jam Recipe with Nuts - A Sweet Indulgence for the Whole Family

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 10 jars of 400g

Introduction

Who doesn’t love the enticing aroma of cherry jam? This cherry jam recipe is not only a great way to preserve seasonal fruits but also an opportunity to bring a sweet and tangy taste to your breakfast table every morning. Cherries, with their natural acidity and intense flavors, transform into a delicacy that can be enjoyed on toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries.

The history of cherry jam spans centuries, being a traditional method of preserving fruits used by many generations. This jam will not only enhance the flavors of your dishes but also bring a touch of nostalgia to each of our memories.

Ingredients

- 5 kg pitted cherries
- 4 kg sugar
- Zest from 2 lemons (preferably organic to avoid pesticides)
- 2 packets of vanilla sugar
- 1 packet of preservative (type E211, to extend the shelf life of the jam)
- Optional: 200 g ground nuts (for a unique taste and texture)

Step by Step: Making Cherry Jam

1. Preparing the cherries
Start by washing the cherries thoroughly. Ensure they are fresh and free from mold or damage. Remove the pits and place the cherries in a large bowl. Add 2 kg of sugar and mix well. Let them sit overnight to extract the natural juice.

2. Extracting the juice
The next day, strain the cherries to separate the juice from the pulp. This juice will be the base of the syrup, so make sure to keep it.

3. Making the cherry paste
Put the strained cherries in a food processor. Blend on high speed until you achieve a smooth paste, but not too liquid. This will give the jam a pleasant consistency.

4. Boiling the jam
In a large pot, combine the cherry paste with the remaining sugar (2 kg) and the juice obtained earlier. Place the mixture over low heat and let it boil for about 50-60 minutes. Stir constantly to prevent burning.

5. Adding flavors
Once the jam starts to thicken, add the lemon zest and vanilla sugar. These ingredients will enhance the flavor of the jam. If you choose to add ground nuts, now is the time – they will add extra taste and texture.

6. Preserving the jam
When the jam reaches the desired consistency, add the preservative and let it cook for another 10 minutes. It is now ready to be poured into jars.

7. Bottling
Use clean, dry jars. Fill them with hot jam, then seal them tightly and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. Leave them like this until they cool completely.

Practical Tips

- For an even more intense flavor, you can add a splash of rum essence to the jam mixture at the end.
- Check the consistency of the jam during boiling with a simple test: put a teaspoon of jam on a plate and leave it in the freezer for a few minutes. If it thickens, it’s ready.
- Store the jam best in a cool, dark place. You can label each jar with the date the jam was made.

Nutritional Benefits

Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making them a healthy ingredient. Consuming cherry jam can help improve digestion and strengthen the immune system. However, it is important to consume the jam in moderation due to its high sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries can be used, but it’s important to let them thaw completely and drain well before using them.

- What other fruits can I use for jam?
You can experiment with other fruits, such as cherries, peaches, or plums, following the same sugar ratios.

- How long can the jam be stored?
If prepared and preserved correctly, the jam can be stored for up to 2 years in sealed jars.

Serving Suggestions

Cherry jam pairs wonderfully with fresh cheese or as a filling for pancakes. You can also try using it in pastry dishes, such as pies or tarts. Additionally, combined with yogurt or vanilla pudding, it offers a delicious and quick dessert.

Try this cherry jam recipe and bring a touch of sweetness into your life! With each jar, you will turn simple moments into unforgettable memories, full of flavor and joy. Enjoy!