Cherry jam
To prepare a delicious jam, the first step is to take care of the fruits. We start by washing them carefully under a stream of cold water, making sure that all impurities and pesticides are removed. Then, we remove the pits, which may require a bit of patience but is essential for achieving a fine and pleasant texture of the jam. Once the fruits are ready, we place them in a deep pot, preferably made of stainless steel or glass, to prevent chemical reactions that can affect the taste.
Now comes the time to add the sugar. The amount of sugar depends both on the natural sweetness of the fruits and personal preferences. Usually, it is recommended to start with about 700-800 grams of sugar for one kilogram of fruit, but this ratio can be adjusted. After adding the sugar, we gently stir to ensure that the fruits are evenly coated. We cover the pot and let the mixture macerate for a few hours or, ideally, overnight. This process will help the fruits release their juices, making the jam more flavorful.
In the evening, when we are ready to continue, we place the pot on low heat. Before starting to boil, we add a glass of water, which will help create a more abundant syrup. It is simmered on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent sticking. It is important to skim the foam that forms on the surface, as this can affect the clarity and appearance of the jam. After it has boiled enough, we ensure that the syrup has thickened by testing it by dropping a few drops on a cold plate. If it gels, the jam is ready!
After we turn off the heat, we let the jam cool slightly, but not completely. When it is still warm, we carefully transfer it into sterilized jars, making sure they are completely clean. It is important to seal the jars tightly to prevent oxidation. Don’t forget to label each jar with the date of preparation and the type of fruit used. The jam keeps best in a cool, dark, and dry place. Now that the recipe is complete, all that’s left is to enjoy the result of our delicious work. Enjoy your meal! If you liked my recipe, you can also find it on my blog.
Ingredients: 1 kg cherries; 600 g sugar; 1 glass of water
