Cherry jam

Cherry jam is a delicacy that evokes memories of warm, sunny summers and the joy of harvest. This simple and tasty recipe transforms fresh cherries into a true nectar, perfect for enjoying on a slice of toast, added to yogurt, or even used as a filling for pastries. Let’s begin our culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 15 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 10 kg fresh cherries (with pits)
- 2.5 kg granulated sugar

Necessary equipment:
- Large pot for boiling
- Skimmer or wooden spoon
- Clean and sterilized jars
- Jar lids
- Plate for testing consistency

Step 1: Preparing the cherries
We start by thoroughly washing the cherries under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are clean and free from impurities. Then, using a special tool or manually, carefully remove the pits from each cherry. This step may seem laborious, but it is worth the effort for a fine jam. If you don’t have a pitting tool, you can use a small knife to make a gentle cut.

Step 2: Macerating the cherries
After removing the pits, we place the cherries in a large pot. We add the sugar over them and mix with a wooden spoon, ensuring that all cherries are evenly coated with sugar. We let the mixture sit for about 3 hours so that the cherries release their juice. This is the perfect time to enjoy a glass of freshly squeezed cherry juice!

Step 3: Cooking the jam
After 3 hours, we place the pot over medium heat. It is important to stir frequently with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. At this moment, the sweet aroma of cherries will fill the kitchen, and you will be daydreaming about cherries. We boil the mixture for about 45 minutes to an hour, until the juice thickens. A simple way to check the consistency is to place a spoonful of jam on a plate and let it cool. If it thickens as desired, it’s ready!

Step 4: Filling the jars
When the jam has reached the desired consistency, it’s time to transfer it into jars. Make sure the jars are clean and sterilized, either by washing them in hot water or by a sterilization cycle in the oven. Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving a small space (about 1 cm) at the top. Cover each jar with a clean lid and seal them tightly.

Step 5: Cooling and storing
To ensure a proper seal, turn the jars upside down and wrap them in a towel or a thick blanket. Let them cool this way until the next day. This method will help create a vacuum, which will extend the shelf life of the jam. Once completely cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place.

Tips and tricks:
- Quality cherries are essential! Choose ripe, firm cherries without blemishes.
- Feel free to experiment by adding a hint of vanilla or cinnamon during cooking for an even more special flavor.
- This jam pairs perfectly with cottage cheese or as a filling for pancakes. You can even use it in cake or pie recipes, bringing a delicious contrast.

Nutritional benefits:
Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C, and have anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming cherry jam in moderation can bring health benefits, being a natural source of energy.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How long does cherry jam last?
If stored properly, the jam can last up to 1 year.
2. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, but make sure to completely defrost and drain the juice well before using them.
3. How can I check if the jam is well cooked?
Test it on a plate as mentioned earlier. If it remains firm to the touch, it’s ready!

In conclusion, cherry jam is a classic recipe, full of nostalgia and summer flavors, perfect for enjoying at any time of the year. So embrace the magic of cooking and turn cherries into sweet memories to share with your loved ones!