White plum paste

White sour cherry paste – a delicious traditional recipe

I suggest you prepare a delicious white sour cherry paste, a recipe that will not only delight your taste buds but also bring a touch of nostalgia to your kitchen. This paste, with its sweet-sour flavor, is perfect for spreading on a slice of fresh bread with butter or for filling pancakes. Each serving will bring back memories of childhood, when our grandmothers knew how to turn seasonal fruits into delights that we all enjoyed.

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg white sour cherries (make sure they are ripe but not too soft)
- 2 kg sugar (you can adjust the amount according to your sweetness preferences)
- 50 ml water
- 4 packets of vanilla sugar (for a special flavor)

Preparation of white sour cherry paste:

1. Washing and preparing the sour cherries:
Start by thoroughly washing the sour cherries under a stream of cold water. It is important to remove impurities, and if you notice any spoiled fruits, discard them. These small fruits are a true treasure full of nutrients, being rich in vitamin C and antioxidants.

2. Boiling the sour cherries:
Place the sour cherries in a large pot and add the 50 ml of water. Set the pot over low heat and stir constantly to prevent sticking. The sour cherries will begin to boil and release their juice in about 10-15 minutes. The skin and pulp will separate from the pits, and you will notice the sweet aroma of the fruits filling the kitchen.

3. Separating the pulp from the pits:
Once the sour cherries are boiled, let them cool slightly, then use a fine sieve to separate the pulp from the pits. You can use a silicone spatula or a wooden spoon to help the pulp pass through the sieve. This step is essential to obtain a smooth and homogeneous paste.

4. Blending the paste:
Once you have obtained the pulp, transfer it to a blender and mix until it becomes a fine puree. This is the stage where you can add a personal touch, such as a splash of lemon juice to enhance the flavor, or even a pinch of cinnamon for a warm and comforting aroma.

5. Boiling the paste:
Place the obtained puree in a large pot and bring it to a boil. Simmer over low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring constantly. This process will concentrate the flavor and improve the texture of the paste. To achieve a perfect result, remember to stir frequently, otherwise, you risk the paste sticking.

6. Adding sugar and vanilla:
After 30 minutes, add the sugar and the 4 packets of vanilla sugar. Continue boiling for another 20 minutes, stirring constantly. The sugar will not only sweeten the paste but will also help preserve it, giving it a soft and pleasant texture.

7. Preparing the jars:
While the paste is boiling, prepare the jars. Wash them well and sterilize them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for 15-20 minutes. This step is essential to prevent the growth of bacteria.

8. Filling the jars:
Once the paste is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars. Make sure not to fill the jars to the brim; leave about 1 cm free for expansion. Then, seal them tightly with the lids.

9. Cooling and storing:
Place the filled jars in a cool, dark place, leaving them to dry until the next day. This step will help create a proper seal. Once they have completely cooled, store them in the pantry to enjoy this delicacy throughout the winter.

Serving suggestions:
The white sour cherry paste pairs perfectly on a slice of toasted bread with butter, but it can also be used as a filling for pancakes or pastries. Additionally, it is delicious alongside aged cheeses, bringing a pleasant contrast between the sweet-sour taste and the salty one.

Possible variations:
To add an original touch, you can experiment by adding spices such as grated ginger, cloves, or even a splash of rum for a more intense flavor. You can also replace some of the sugar with honey for a healthier version.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits to make the paste?
Yes, you can experiment with other fruits such as plums or peaches, adjusting the boiling time according to their consistency.

- Is adding sugar necessary?
Sugar not only sweetens the paste but also helps preserve it. If you choose to reduce the amount of sugar, you will need to consume the paste more quickly or keep it in the refrigerator.

Nutritional benefits:
Sour cherries are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as fiber, making them ideal for a healthy diet. Consuming white sour cherry paste can stimulate digestion and strengthen the immune system.

In conclusion, preparing white sour cherry paste is not only a pleasant activity but also an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer in your pantry. I encourage you to try this recipe, enjoy every step of the process, and most importantly, share this delicacy with your loved ones. Bon appétit!