Menthol cherry jam

Cherry jam with mint - a sweet and aromatic delight

If you are looking for a jam recipe that perfectly combines the sweetness of cherries with the freshness of mint, you have come to the right place. This cherry jam with mint recipe brings a new twist to your dishes and can quickly become a family favorite. It is an excellent choice for breakfast, but it can also be used as an ingredient in various desserts or as a filling for cakes.

Preparation time: 30 minutes (preparation), 90 minutes (pitting), 1-2 hours (boiling)
Number of servings: 8-10 jars

Recipe history
Jam is an ancient method of preserving fruit, which has evolved over time to include various flavors and ingredients. The combination of cherries and mint brings an interesting contrast between the fruit's acidity and the freshness of the aromatic herb. Additionally, mint is known for its digestive properties, making this jam not only delicious but also beneficial for health.

Ingredients
- 2 kg fresh cherries (about 1.6 kg without pits)
- 1 kg sugar (adjust according to preferences)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- A handful of fresh mint sprigs
- A vanilla pod or vanilla sugar (optional)

Necessary equipment
- A large pot
- A blender or meat grinder
- Well-cleaned glass jars
- A spatula
- A wooden spoon
- An oven

Step by step: How to make cherry jam with mint

1. Preparing the cherries
Start by washing the cherries. Then, carefully pit them either manually or with a special tool. This step may take between 1 and 1.5 hours, but it is essential for achieving a fine jam. If you wish, you can leave some cherries whole to add texture to the jam.

2. Grinding the cherries
Use a blender or meat grinder to turn the cherries into puree. If you prefer a jam with chunks, you can leave some cherries whole. Personally, I like to use the blender as it gives me a uniform texture.

3. Boiling the cherries
Transfer the cherry puree along with the juice into a large pot. Place the pot over low heat and let it simmer gently. After a few boils, add the sugar, mint leaves, and split vanilla pod (if using). The lemon juice will be added towards the end of the process.

4. Skimming the jam
During boiling, foam will appear. Use a spatula to remove the foam so that the jam remains clear and appetizing. It is important to wipe the edge of the pot to prevent caramelization of the sugar.

5. Checking the consistency
Boil the jam until it sets, about 30-45 minutes. If you want a thicker jam, you can gradually add sugar according to your taste. I prefer a less sweet jam, but that depends on individual preferences.

6. Adding the lemon
Ten minutes before turning off the heat, add the lemon juice and zest, which will give a note of freshness to your jam.

7. Preparing the jars
While the jam is boiling, prepare the jars. I use a meticulous cleaning technique: I soak them in hot soapy water, then rinse and scald them. It is essential that the jars are free from any grease residues to prevent fermentation of the jam.

8. Pouring the jam into jars
When the jam is ready, remove the mint leaves and place the jars in the oven at a low temperature to warm them up. Then, pour the hot jam into the jars, filling them almost to the top. Put the lids on and tighten them well to avoid air getting in.

9. Sealing the jam
Put the jars back in the oven for a few minutes so that a crust forms on the surface of the jam and ensures a good seal. Then, wrap them in a blanket until the next day to help them cool slowly.

Serving suggestions
This cherry jam with mint is delicious on a slice of toasted bread, but it can also be used as a filling for cakes, tarts, or as a topping for ice cream. I recommend trying it with fresh cheese, and the combination will be simply divine!

Cognac variation
If you prefer a deeper flavor, you can replace the vanilla pod with a little cognac. This will add a sophisticated note to your jam.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use frozen cherries? Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.
- Is it necessary to add sugar? Sugar helps preserve the jam, but you can reduce the amount according to your preferences.
- How can I tell when the jam is ready? A simple method is to put a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate and see if it sets.

Nutritional benefits
Cherries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins (such as vitamin C), and minerals. This jam is not just a delicacy, but it also provides important nutritional benefits.

Calories
A serving of cherry jam (about 20g) contains approximately 50 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to start cooking! I assure you that cherry jam with mint will quickly become one of your favorites, and your loved ones will surely appreciate your effort. Enjoy!