Sour cherry jam

Cherry Jam: A Summer Story in Every Jar

Cherry jam is one of those delights that reminds us of warm summer days and family meals, where every spoonful of jam feels like a warm hug. This simple and captivating recipe transforms fresh cherries into a treat that can be enjoyed on toast, alongside pancakes, or even as a filling for cakes. Get ready for a culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Servings: approximately 6 jars of 400g

Ingredients

- 2 kg of fresh cherries
- 1.5 kg of sugar
- 1 packet of vanilla sugar
- 1 essence of vanilla (optional)
- Zest of one orange (finely grated)

Step by step in making cherry jam

1. Preparing the cherries
The first step is to take care of our cherries. Wash them well under cold water to remove any impurities. Using a toothpick or a small knife, remove the pits. This process can be a bit tedious, but it is essential for obtaining a fine and delicious jam.

2. Marinating the cherries
Place the pitted cherries in a large pot. Add the sugar and orange zest. Cover the pot with a lid or plastic wrap and let the mixture chill in the refrigerator overnight. This step allows the cherries to release their juice and blend the flavors, creating a perfect base for the jam.

3. Cooking the jam
The next day, take the pot out of the refrigerator and place it over low heat. It is important to cook on low heat to avoid caramelizing the sugar too quickly. As the mixture begins to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a spoon to remove this foam, as you want a clear and beautiful jam.

4. Adding flavors
After about 30 minutes of boiling, add the vanilla essence and the packet of vanilla sugar. These will enhance the flavor of your jam. Continue to cook the mixture for about 60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam becomes thick.

5. Testing the consistency
A simple trick to check if the jam is ready is to put a drop of the mixture on a cold plate. Let it cool for a few seconds, then tilt the plate. If the drop does not run, the jam is ready for bottling.

6. Bottling
Once the jam is ready, let it cool slightly, then carefully pour it into sterilized jars. It is important that the jars are clean and have been sterilized to prevent bacteria growth. Seal the lid tightly and turn the jars upside down. This trick helps create a vacuum that will keep the jam fresh for longer.

7. Storing
Cover the jars with a towel and let them cool completely until the next day. Then, you can store them in a cool, dark place.

Useful tips

- Give it a twist: Instead of using orange zest, you can try lemon zest for a more tangy flavor.
- Experiment with other fruits: This recipe also works with other fruits, such as cherries or strawberries. Each variation will offer a unique flavor.
- Enrich with spices: For an exotic touch, you can add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during boiling.

Nutritional benefits

Cherries are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. These fruits are rich in antioxidants, vitamin C, and fiber, having anti-inflammatory effects and benefits for heart health. Consuming cherry jam in moderation can provide a natural energy boost without worrying about excessive sugar, especially since you can control how much sugar you add.

Calories

A serving of cherry jam (approximately 20g) contains around 50 calories. It is important to note that while it is a sweet treat, consumption should be moderate.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen cherries?
Yes, frozen cherries can be successfully used, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before adding them to the recipe.

2. How can I tell if the jars are properly sterilized?
To sterilize jars, you can wash them in the dishwasher at high temperatures or boil them for 10 minutes in a pot of boiling water.

3. What can I serve cherry jam with?
Cherry jam pairs perfectly with cottage cheese, yogurt, pancakes, or on toast. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or pies.

The story behind the recipe

Cherry jam has a long-standing tradition, being a dish that has been passed down from generation to generation. In many families, making this jam marked the beginning of summer when the fruits were fresh and full of flavor. It is a recipe that brings people together, often prepared in the company of loved ones, each contributing a bit of their energy and love.

No matter where you are, cherry jam can transform your mornings and bring a touch of joy to each day. So gear up with the necessary ingredients and let your creativity run wild! Enjoy!