Introduction
Cherry jam is a delightful treat that captures the essence of summer in every spoonful. This sweet and tangy preserve is perfect for spreading on toast, enhancing desserts, or as a filling for pastries. With just a few simple ingredients and some time, you can create your own cherry jam at home using a traditional recipe.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Fresh cherries: 1 kg
Sugar: 700 g
Lemon juice: 50 ml
Pectin: 20 g
Prep Time
Prep time for this cherry jam is approximately 30 minutes. This includes washing, pitting, and preparing the cherries for cooking.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook time is about 60 minutes. This leads to a total time of approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes from start to finish. The recipe yields about 3 jars of delicious cherry jam, perfect for enjoying or sharing with friends and family.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Cherries
Remove the stems and pits from the cherries. Wash the cherries thoroughly and ensure they are free of dirt and debris.
Step 2: Cook the Cherries
Place the prepared cherries in a large pot. Add a bit of water to prevent sticking. Cook the cherries over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until they begin to release their juices.
Step 3: Add Sugar
Once the cherries have softened, gradually add sugar to the pot. Stir well until the sugar dissolves completely.
Step 4: Boil the Mixture
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil. Allow it to boil for about 10-15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent scorching.
Step 5: Test for Consistency
To check if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through it. If it holds its shape, it is ready to be jarred.
Step 6: Prepare the Jars
While the jam is boiling, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for about 10 minutes. Allow them to dry completely.
Step 7: Fill the Jars
Carefully ladle the hot cherry jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1 cm of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any spills.
Step 8: Seal the Jars
Place the lids on the jars and screw them on tightly. If you prefer, you can process the jars in a water bath for additional preservation.
Step 9: Cool and Store
Allow the jars to cool at room temperature. Once cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place.
Notes
Note 1: Serving Suggestions
Cherry jam is perfect for spreading on toast, adding to pastries, or using as a topping for desserts.
Note 2: Variations
Feel free to mix in other fruits or spices, such as vanilla or cinnamon, to create a unique twist on the traditional cherry jam.
Note 3: Shelf Life
Properly sealed and stored, the cherry jam can last up to a year. Always check for signs of spoilage before use.
