Horned jam

Cornel jam - a fragrant delicacy full of tradition

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 5 jars of 400 g

Cornel jam is a treat for the taste buds, a simple recipe but with a remarkable impact due to its unique flavor. Cornels, these small fruits, red or yellow in color, are often underestimated, yet they are full of nutritional benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, making them ideal for a healthy jam.

The history of cornel jam takes us back in time when people from various corners of the world began to preserve fruits to enjoy them outside of the season. Transforming fruits into jams has become an art, and each recipe and ingredient has its own story. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step to achieve a delicious cornel jam with a perfect texture and vibrant color.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg of fresh cornels
- 500-600 g of sugar (depending on how ripe the cornels are)
- Water (enough to cover the cornels)

Step 1: Preparing the cornels
Start by washing the cornels well under a stream of cold water. It is essential to remove any impurities or dirt from the fruits. After washing, place the cornels in a large pot and add enough water to completely cover them.

Step 2: Scalding the cornels
Put the pot on low heat and let the cornels scald for about 10 minutes. It is important not to boil them, but just to gently heat them to soften and make them easier to process. People often underestimate this step, but it is crucial for achieving a fine texture in the jam.

Step 3: Obtaining the paste
After the cornels have been scalded, turn off the heat and let them cool slightly. Now, use a sieve or a blender to mash the cornels, thus removing the pits. This step may require a bit of effort, but the result is worth it. Do not throw away the water in which the cornels were scalded, as you will use it later.

Step 4: Measuring the paste and adding sugar
Weigh the obtained paste and for each kilogram of paste, add between 500 and 600 g of sugar. The exact amount of sugar depends on the sweetness of the cornels used. If the cornels are very ripe, you can opt for a smaller amount of sugar.

Step 5: Boiling the jam
Put the cornel paste and sugar in a pot over medium heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. Boil the jam for about 30 minutes. Be careful, as prolonged boiling can lead to caramelization of the sugar, and the color of the jam will change, losing its characteristic red-bordeaux shade.

Step 6: Bottling the jam
As soon as the jam reaches the desired consistency, pour it into clean, sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are completely dry before filling them. Seal them tightly and turn them upside down for about 5 minutes to create a vacuum that will help preserve the jam.

Useful tips:
- For a more intense flavor, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice during boiling. This will enhance the fruit aroma and improve the jam's preservation.
- If you want to diversify the recipe, you can add spices like cinnamon or cloves for an exotic flavor.
- Cornel jam keeps well in airtight jars at room temperature, but after opening, store it in the refrigerator.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long does cornel jam last?
Cornel jam can be stored for up to a year if stored correctly. Once opened, it is recommended to consume it within a few months.
- Can I use frozen cornels?
Yes, you can use frozen cornels, but make sure to completely thaw them before processing.

In conclusion, cornel jam is a simple yet flavorful recipe, perfect for adding a touch of sweetness to breakfast or for using as a filling in cakes and desserts. Served on a slice of toasted bread or alongside cheese, this jam will surely become a family favorite. Discover the joy of making cornel jam and let it enrich your meals with natural and healthy flavors!