Plum jam with walnuts
Plum Jam with Nuts – A Fall Delicacy
Who doesn't love the sweet and tangy aroma of plum jam? This traditional recipe for plum jam with nuts is not only easy to prepare but also an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer all year round. Perfect to enjoy on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for pastries, this jam transforms any meal into an unforgettable experience. Let's embark on this delicious jam-making adventure together!
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 5 jars of 400 g
Necessary Ingredients:
- 3 kg of juicy, sweet plums (choose well-ripened plums)
- 500 g of sugar (adjust the amount to your preference)
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 200 g of crushed nuts (lightly roasted)
- 2 cloves
- 1 cinnamon stick or 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
- 1-2 tablespoons of rum essence (optional)
Utensils:
- A large pot for cooking
- A cutting board and a knife
- A blender or food processor (if you want a finer consistency)
- Sterilized jars
- An oven for roasting the nuts
A Brief Story:
Plum jam has a rich history, being a traditional method of preserving fruits from the autumn season. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of plums with the deep flavor of nuts, offering a contrast of textures and tastes. There's nothing more comforting than a spoonful of plum jam on freshly baked bread, is there?
Step by Step:
1. Preparing the Plums:
- Wash the plums well under cold running water to remove any impurities.
- Cut the plums in half and remove the pits. Place the plums in a large pot, alternating layers of plums and sugar. Cover the pot with plastic wrap and let it sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This step will help extract the juices from the plums, giving them a more intense flavor.
2. Cooking the Plums:
- After a day has passed, take the pot out of the refrigerator and add the cloves, cinnamon stick, and the juice of one lemon (don't forget to keep the zest for added flavor!).
- Place the pot on low heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent sticking. If you want a finer texture, now is the time to use the food processor or blender.
3. Adding the Nuts:
- While the plums are boiling, prepare the nuts. Roast them in the oven for about 5-7 minutes until golden and fragrant. Let them cool, then crush them lightly, being careful not to turn them into powder.
- Add the nuts to the jam mixture 15 minutes before cooking is complete, allowing them to soften and release their flavor.
4. Finishing the Jam:
- When the jam reaches the right consistency (you can check by placing a spoonful on a cold plate – if it doesn't run, it's ready), add the lemon zest and rum essence for a perfect flavor.
- Mix well and let it boil for another 5 minutes.
5. Jarring the Jam:
- Prepare the jars: wash them well and sterilize them in the oven at 100°C for 10 minutes.
- Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving a small space at the top. Screw on the lids, and for extra safety, you can place the jars in a warm oven for a few minutes to create a protective seal.
- Cover the jars with a blanket and let them cool slowly. This will help create the vacuum necessary for preservation.
Practical Tips:
- Choosing Plums: Use well-ripened, sweet plums for a tasty jam. Sour plums may require more sugar.
- Checking Consistency: If you're unsure whether the jam is ready, do the plate test – place a spoonful of jam on a cold plate and tilt it. If it doesn't run, it's perfect.
- Vegan Option: If you want a sugar-free version, you can use natural sweeteners like agave syrup or honey (the latter is not vegan, but a healthy alternative).
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Yes, this recipe can be adapted with other fruits like apricots or peaches.
- How long does the jam last? If properly sterilized, the jam can be kept in the pantry for up to a year.
- How can I serve the jam? It is delicious on toasted bread, in pancakes, or as a filling for pastries and tarts.
Recommended Pairings:
- This plum jam with nuts pairs perfectly with soft cheeses like brie or camembert, bringing a wonderful contrast of flavors.
- Enjoy it alongside herbal tea or fresh lemonade for a refreshing experience.
Nutritional Benefits:
Plums are rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and K, while nuts provide omega-3 fatty acids and protein. This jam is not only delicious but also a healthy choice for breakfast or snacks.
Personal Note:
For an even more intense flavor, try adding a teaspoon of grated ginger or a pinch of black pepper to the mixture. This will add a note of warmth and depth to the jam, transforming it into a unique delicacy that will impress everyone who tastes it!
Now that you have all the necessary information, all that's left is to put on an apron, gather your ingredients, and start making this wonderful plum jam with nuts. Enjoy every step of the process and savor the final result!
Ingredients: 3 kg of juicy and sweet plums, 500 g of sugar, 1 lemon, 200 g of crushed walnuts, 2 cloves, 1 stick of cinnamon or 1 teaspoon of powder, rum essence
