Sour cherry jam

Bitter Cherry Jam

Who doesn't love to have a bit of summer in a jar? Bitter cherry jam is a classic recipe, full of intense flavors and a balanced sweetness that takes us back to warm days. Making this jam is a true art, but with a few tricks and tips, you'll achieve a perfect result that will delight both family and friends. Let's discover together how to make it step by step!

Preparation time: 4 hours (including letting the cherries sit)
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total: 4 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 450g

Ingredients:
- 3 kg bitter cherries (fresh and ripe)
- 2.5 kg sugar
- 3 cm vanilla bean
- 1 piece of butter (about the size of a walnut)
- Juice of 1 lemon

Necessary utensils:
- A large pot with a thick bottom
- Wooden spatula
- Glass jars with lids
- Thick board (or a cooking stove)

Preparing the bitter cherry jam:

Step 1: Preparing the cherries
Start by washing the cherries well under a stream of cold water. Remove the stems and pits. This step may seem tedious, but it is essential for obtaining a fine and delicious jam. If you want to make your work easier, you can use a cherry pitter.

Step 2: Layering the cherries and sugar
In a large pot with a thick bottom, place a layer of cherries followed by a layer of sugar. Continue alternating layers until all the cherries and sugar are in the pot. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture sit for 4 hours, so the cherries release their juice. This step is crucial for intensifying the flavor of the jam.

Step 3: Cooking the jam
After 4 hours, place the pot on the heat, but not directly on the flame. Use a thick board to distribute the heat evenly. Begin boiling over high heat. When the mixture starts to boil, add the lemon juice, the vanilla bean (split lengthwise to release its flavors), and the piece of butter. The butter not only improves the texture of the jam but also helps prevent foam formation.

Step 4: Boiling and thickening
Boil the mixture over high heat for about 30 minutes, stirring constantly with a wooden spatula to prevent sticking. After 30 minutes, reduce the flame to minimum and let the jam simmer on low heat, stirring occasionally, until the syrup thickens well. You can check the consistency of the jam by putting a drop on a cold plate; if it thickens, it's ready.

Step 5: Bottling
When the jam is ready, pour it hot into clean, dry jars. Make sure to fill them to the brim to prevent mold formation. Put the lids on the jars.

Step 6: Sterilizing
Preheat the oven to high temperature. After filling the jars, place them in a tray and put them in the oven at low heat for 15 minutes. This step helps sterilize the jars and ensures better preservation. Turn off the oven and let the jars cool inside.

Step 7: Storing
Once they have completely cooled, label the jars with the date of preparation and store them in the pantry. Now it's time to enjoy bitter cherry jam throughout the year!

Useful tricks and tips
1. Choose quality cherries: Fresh, ripe cherries will provide the best flavor. Check that they are firm and blemish-free.
2. Variation with other fruits: You can experiment by adding other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create a mixed jam.
3. A splash of alcohol: Add a little rum or brandy during boiling for a richer taste.
4. Serving: This jam pairs perfectly with goat cheese or on a slice of toasted bread. It can also be used as a filling for cakes or tarts.

Nutritional benefits
Cherries are rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, having beneficial effects on the immune system and contributing to skin health. They also have anti-inflammatory properties and can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Frequently asked questions
1. How long does the jam last? Bitter cherry jam can be stored for a year if kept under proper conditions.
2. How can I check if the jam is well set? You can do the plate test: drop a drop of jam, and if it doesn't run, it's ready.
3. Can I use another type of sugar? White sugar is best, but you can also try brown sugar for a more caramelized taste.

By discovering bitter cherry jam, we not only enrich our pantry but also our soul, reminding us of the moments spent in summer. Don't hesitate to try this simple yet flavorful recipe and personalize it to your taste!

 Ingredients: 3 kg sour cherries, 2.5 kg sugar, 3 cm vanilla bean, 1 piece of butter the size of a walnut, juice of 1 lemon. 8 jars (450g each jar)

 Tags:  sour cherry jam