Apricot jam

Apricot jam is a delicacy that evokes childhood memories, when summers were filled with aromas and moments spent with loved ones. This simple yet flavorful recipe transforms juicy apricots into a treat that you can enjoy on toast, in yogurt, or simply straight from the jar. Let's discover together how to make this delicious jam!

Preparation time: 24 minutes
Cooking time: 36 minutes
Total: 1 hour
Servings: 3 large jars of 700 g

Ingredients:
- 1.8 kg apricots (weighed without pits)
- 1 kg sugar
- 2 glasses of water (approximately 600 ml)

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon
- Glass jars with lids (preferably sterilized)
- A skimmer to remove foam

Step by step:

1. Preparing the apricots: Start by washing the apricots well under cold running water. Then, remove the pits and cut each apricot into small cubes. This step will not only help with even cooking but will also release the delicious juices of the fruit.

2. Preparing the syrup: In a large pot, add the 600 ml of water and the sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir occasionally to completely dissolve the sugar. When the syrup starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low.

3. Adding the fruit: Once the syrup has started to boil, carefully add the apricot cubes to the pot. Gently stir with a wooden spoon, being careful not to let the fruit stick to the bottom of the pot. It is important to stir constantly, especially in the first moments, to prevent sticking.

4. Removing the foam: During boiling, foam may form on the surface. Use a skimmer or a spoon to remove this foam so that your jam remains clear and attractive.

5. Checking the consistency: After about 36 minutes, the syrup should be thickened. You can check its consistency with a simple test: drop a few drops of syrup on a cold plate. If it thickens and doesn’t spread too much, it’s ready.

6. Cooling and preserving: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, take the pot off the heat and let the mixture cool slightly. Then, carefully pour the jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Put on the lids and label the jars with the date and type of jam.

7. Storage: It is ideal to keep jams in cool, dark places. Apricot jam can be stored for several months, and once opened, consume it within a few weeks.

Practical tips:
- Choose ripe apricots: Fresh and ripe fruits are essential for quality jam. Buy them in season for the best flavor.
- Sugar: You can experiment with different types of sugar, such as brown sugar or coconut sugar, to achieve a jam with caramelized notes.
- Flavoring: If you want to add a touch of originality, you can add a vanilla pod or a few sprigs of rosemary during boiling.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:
Apricot jam is a good source of vitamins, especially vitamin A and vitamin C. Additionally, apricots contain antioxidants that help protect the body. A serving of 100 g of jam contains approximately 250-300 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, this recipe is versatile! You can replace apricots with peaches, plums, or even cherries.
- How can I tell if the jam is well made? The plate test is the best way to check the consistency. If it doesn’t thicken, let it boil for a few more minutes.
- What can I serve with apricot jam? It’s wonderful on toast, with cottage cheese, or combined with yogurt. It also pairs perfectly with pancakes or pastries.

Apricot jam is not just a treat, but also a way to preserve the taste of summer in jars. So, don’t hesitate to experiment and personalize your recipe! Enjoy!