Green walnut jam

Green walnut jam is an unmistakable delight, a true symbol of summer, reminding us of the days spent in grandmother's garden. This quick and easy dessert is perfect to enjoy alongside a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for pastries. I invite you to let yourself be carried away by its delicious aromas and unique textures. Here’s how you can prepare this special jam.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 5-6 jars

Ingredients:
- 150 green walnuts (make sure they are young, green, and unripe)
- 1 kg sugar
- 400 ml water
- Juice of one medium-sized lemon

Preparation:
1. Preparing the walnuts: Start by washing the green walnuts well under cold running water. It is important to wear gloves, as the juice from these walnuts can stain the skin. Cut each walnut in half or into quarters, depending on your preference. This will help to release the flavors.

2. Boiling the walnuts: Place the cut walnuts in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Let them boil for about 10-15 minutes, then drain and rinse them with cold water to remove the bitterness.

3. Preparing the syrup: In the same pot, add 400 ml of water and 1 kg of sugar. Stir well to dissolve the sugar, then bring to a boil. Let it boil over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the syrup becomes thick, about 20 minutes.

4. Adding the walnuts: Once the syrup is ready, add the boiled walnuts. Allow the mixture to simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Finally, add the juice of one lemon, which will provide a fresh taste and help preserve the jam.

5. Packing into jars: After the jam reaches the desired consistency, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly. Fill the sterilized jars with hot jam, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars with airtight lids.

6. Cooling and storing: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place. Green walnut jam can be kept for several months.

Practical tips:
- For added flavor, you can add a few cloves or a cinnamon stick to the sugar syrup.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the amount of sugar by 200-300 g.
- This recipe can also be adapted with other ingredients, such as walnut kernels or even different spices to taste.

Serving suggestion: Green walnut jam pairs perfectly with soft cheeses or as a filling for pastries and pies. A slice of toasted bread spread with butter and a generous layer of jam will turn any breakfast into a true feast.

So, don’t hesitate to try this green walnut jam recipe! It’s a wonderful way to preserve the taste of summer in jars and delight your family and friends with a traditional, flavorful treat.