Kiwi jam

Kiwi Jam – A Flavorful and Vitamin-Packed Delicacy

Making kiwi jam is a true culinary art that combines the natural sweetness of these vibrant fruits with the pleasant acidity of lemon. With a soft texture and fresh taste, kiwi jam is perfect for spreading on a slice of toasted bread, adding to yogurt, or even using as a filling for pastries. Let’s discover together how to make this delicious jam, step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: about 4 jars of 250 g

Ingredients

- 1 kg of ripe kiwi (choose soft but firm fruits)
- 500 g of sugar (for a sweeter jam, you can add a little more)
- Juice of 1 lemon (about 50 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon of pectin (optional, to help thicken)

Necessary utensils

- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large pot
- A silicone or wooden spatula
- Sterilized jars with lids

Preparation

1. Preparing the fruit: Start by thoroughly washing the kiwi. Choose soft and ripe fruits, as they will provide the best flavor and texture. Peel the kiwi with a knife and cut them into small cubes. This will help release the juice and facilitate cooking.

2. Mixing the ingredients: Place the kiwi cubes in a large bowl and add the sugar and lemon juice. Mix the ingredients well and let them sit for about 30 minutes. This step is essential for the kiwi to release its natural juice, which will contribute to the formation of the jam.

3. Cooking the jam: After letting the kiwi mixture sit, transfer it to a large pot. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly to avoid burning. If you want to add pectin for a thicker jam, now is the time to do it.

4. Checking the consistency: After about 15-20 minutes of boiling, the jam should start to thicken. Do the spoon test: take a drop of jam and place it on a cold plate. Tilt the plate, and if the jam doesn’t run, it’s ready. If it seems too fluid, add a little more sugar and boil for a few more minutes.

5. Bottling: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat and let it cool slightly. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, filling them almost to the top. Place the lids on the jars, but do not seal them completely. Place the jars in a warm place, such as an turned-off oven or on a thick towel, to help seal them.

6. Cooling: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Once cooled, check that the lids are well sealed. You can store the jam at room temperature for a few months. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator.

Useful tips

- Choosing kiwi: Make sure the kiwis are ripe but not too soft. A well-ripened kiwi will have an intense flavor and contribute to a tastier jam. Look for fruits with smooth skin and no blemishes.

- Sugar: The amount of sugar can be adjusted according to personal preferences. If you want a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that sugar helps with preservation.

- Pectin: If you want a firmer jam, adding pectin is an excellent option. It can be found in health food stores or in the spice aisle.

Delicious combinations

Kiwi jam is versatile and can be used in various ways. You can combine it with:

- Natural yogurt: Add a spoonful of kiwi jam to yogurt for a healthy and energizing breakfast.
- Toast: Serve it on a slice of toasted bread with butter for a delicious taste.
- Desserts: Use it as a filling for pastries or tarts, or as a topping for ice cream.

Nutritional benefits

Kiwi is a fruit rich in vitamins and minerals. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin E, potassium, and fiber. Consuming kiwi jam can help strengthen the immune system, improve digestion, and maintain skin health.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen kiwi?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw it and drain excess water before use.

2. How can I tell if the jam is well-cooked?
The plate test is the simplest. If the jam doesn’t run, it’s ready!

3. How can I store the jam for a longer time?
Make sure the jars are properly sterilized and store them in a dark, cool place.

4. Can I add other fruits to the kiwi jam?
Absolutely! You can combine kiwi with peaches or mango for a unique flavor.

Kiwi jam is not just a simple recipe, but also a flavorful and colorful experience. Try making it and enjoy this delicacy at home! Whether you savor it in the morning or use it in desserts, this jam will bring a touch of freshness to any dish. Enjoy!