Plum jam

Plum Jam with Cinnamon - A Sweet and Aromatic Delight

Who doesn't love the sweet aroma of plum jam wafting through the house? This cinnamon plum jam recipe is not only a fantastic way to preserve autumn fruits but also an opportunity to bring a touch of warmth and comfort to every jar. It’s perfect for pancakes, pastries, or even delicious breakfasts. Let’s see how we can transform plums into this delicacy!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total time: 3 hours
Number of servings: 10 jars (approximately 1 kg each)

Ingredients:
- 7 kg of pitted plums
- 3 kg of sugar
- 1 tablespoon of ground cinnamon
- 1 packet of Dr. Oetker preservative (optional, for longer shelf life)
- 2 lemons (juice and zest)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the Plums:
Start by picking ripe plums, preferably from a trusted source. Wash them well under cold running water to remove impurities. Use a small knife to pit each plum and remove the stones. It may seem tedious, but it’s worth every moment!

2. Mixing with Sugar and Cinnamon:
Place the plums in a large bowl and add the sugar and ground cinnamon. Mix well so that the sugar is evenly distributed over the fruit. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate until the next day. This step is essential as it helps draw out the juices from the plums, resulting in a more flavorful jam.

3. Cooking the Jam:
The next day, transfer the plum mixture into a large pot. Add the juice and zest of the two lemons – they not only provide a fresh taste but also help preserve the jam due to their acidity. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and add the remaining sugar.

4. Cooking and Stirring:
It’s important to stir the jam every 10-15 minutes, especially in the early stages, to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Let the jam boil for about 2 hours and 30 minutes, or until you notice it thickening. A simple technique to check the jam’s consistency is to place a drop on a cold plate; if it holds its shape and doesn’t run, it’s ready!

5. Sterilizing the Jars:
While the jam is boiling, prepare the jars. Wash them well and sterilize them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes. Ensure they are completely dry before filling them.

6. Filling and Sealing:
Once the jam is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, leaving a few centimeters of space at the top. Use a sterilized lid to seal the jars tightly. Then cover them with a blanket to cool slowly.

7. Storing the Jam:
After they have completely cooled, store the jars in a pantry, away from sunlight. The plum jam will keep well and can be enjoyed throughout the winter!

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Plums: Ensure the plums are ripe but not too soft. Firmer plums will provide a better texture for the jam.
- Sugar-Free Option: If you prefer a healthier version, you can reduce the amount of sugar or use a natural sweetener, but this may affect the consistency and sweetness of the jam.
- Adding Other Spices: Feel free to experiment with other spices, such as nutmeg or cloves, to add a personal touch to your jam.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Why is my jam too runny?
This may be due to insufficient boiling. Make sure to boil the jam long enough to allow for water evaporation and thickening.

2. Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
Absolutely! This recipe can also be adapted for other fruits, such as apricots or peaches. Each fruit has its own characteristics, so adjust the boiling time based on the desired consistency.

3. How can I use plum jam?
The jam is delicious on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for pastries. You can also try adding it to yogurt or cottage cheese for an energizing breakfast.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Plum jam is an excellent source of fiber and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion and boosting the immune system. However, it’s important to consume the jam in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Now that you have all the details, all that’s left is to get started! Transform the plums into this delicious jam and enjoy the taste of summer even on cold winter days. It’s a delightful activity, and each jar will become a sweet memory of the season. Enjoy!