Seasonal fruit jam with Gelfix

Seasonal Fruit Jam with Gelfix

Every summer, when seasonal fruits appear at market stalls, it's time to let ourselves be inspired by natural flavors and enjoy the delights they offer. Fruit jam is an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer, and with the help of Gelfix, the process becomes simple and quick. This seasonal fruit jam recipe will turn any meal into a special occasion, bringing a touch of sunshine to every jar.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 jars of 400g

Ingredients for Variant 1:
- 6 kg of fruits (cherries, sour cherries, blueberries, 6-7 stalks of rhubarb)
- 4 packets of Gelfix
- 3 kg of sugar

Ingredients for Variant 2:
- 4 kg of fruits (blueberries, cherries, apricots)
- 2 packets of Gelfix
- 1 kg of sugar

Making jam is an art intertwined with tradition. Its history dates back to ancient times when people sought ways to preserve fruits for the cold season. Over time, jam has evolved into various forms and has become a cherished delicacy worldwide.

Step by step:
1. Preparing the fruits: Start by washing the fruits well under cold running water. Remove the pits from cherries and sour cherries, and if using rhubarb, cut it into small pieces. This step is essential for achieving a balanced flavor in your jam. If you have frozen fruits, ensure they are completely thawed before use.

2. Crushing the fruits: Use a blender or a masher to crush the fruits. If you prefer a more rustic texture, you can leave some fruits whole. This will add extra consistency and a more appealing look to your jam.

3. Mixing with sugar: Place the crushed fruits in a large pot and add the sugar. Mix well and let them sit for 1 hour. This waiting time will allow the sugar to dissolve completely and extract the natural juices from the fruits, resulting in a more aromatic jam.

4. Boiling the mixture: Bring the fruit and sugar mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Cook until the fruits are well cooked and the mixture has started to thicken.

5. Adding Gelfix: Before adding Gelfix, mix it with a little sugar to avoid clumping. Then add this mixture to the boiling jam and boil for another 7 minutes, stirring constantly. This step is crucial for achieving the perfect texture and good preservation.

6. Jarring the jam: Prepare the jars by sterilizing them. You can do this by boiling them for 10 minutes or by washing them in the dishwasher at high temperatures. Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving a 1 cm space to the jar's rim. Seal immediately with the lids.

7. Cooling: After filling all the jars, turn them upside down for 10 minutes. Then, cover them with a blanket until they cool completely. This process helps create a vacuum that will keep the jam fresh for a longer time.

Practical tips:
- Choosing fruits: Use fresh and ripe fruits for a superior quality jam. Seasonal fruits are the most flavorful and full of vitamins.
- Fruit variations: You can experiment with various combinations of fruits. For example, adding peaches or apples can give your jam a unique flavor.
- Sugar control: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but this may affect preservation. Gelfix will help you achieve a good consistency even with less sugar.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
Fruit jam is a concentrated source of vitamins and antioxidants. For instance, cherries are rich in vitamin C and can contribute to heart health. On average, a 100g serving of jam can contain about 250-300 calories, depending on the fruits used and the amount of sugar. It is important to consume jam in moderation, considering the sugar content.

Delicious combinations:
Seasonal fruit jam can be enjoyed on a slice of toasted bread, in yogurt, or as a filling for cakes and tarts. It can also be added to meat sauces or used as a glaze for desserts. A delicious drink that pairs perfectly with your jam would be a cold fruit tea or a refreshing lemonade.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can the jam be stored longer? Yes, if stored correctly in sterilized and sealed jars.
- Can I use frozen fruits? Absolutely! Just make sure to thaw them completely before using.
- How can I tell if the jam is ready? A simple method is to place a drop of jam on a cold plate. If it holds its shape, it is ready.

This seasonal fruit jam recipe with Gelfix is an excellent way to bring a bit of your summer into every winter. So, gather the fruits, follow the steps carefully, and enjoy the final result. Each jar will be a sweet reminder of warm summer days that you can share with loved ones. Savor your creation!

 Ingredients: Option 1: 6 kg of fruits (cherries, sour cherries, blueberries, 6-7 stalks of rhubarb) 4 packets of Gelfix 3 kg of sugar. Option 2: 4 kg of fruits (blueberries, cherries, apricots) 1 kg of sugar 2 packets of Gelfix.