Cherry jam is a timeless classic for breakfasts and snacks, appreciated for its sweet flavor and its versatility. However, many people are looking for healthier alternatives, avoiding the use of refined sugar.
Fortunately, it is possible to prepare a delicious sugar-free cherry jam , taking advantage of the natural sweetness of the fruit and a few little tricks. Let’s see together how to do it.
Ingredients
- 500g fresh cherries : Make sure they are ripe and sweet.
- 1 apple : The natural pectin contained in the apple will help thicken the jam.
- The juice of half a lemon : In addition to giving a note of freshness, the lemon acts as a natural preservative.
- Natural sweetener (optional) : If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can add a little stevia, erythritol or agave syrup.
Method
- Preparation of cherries :
- Wash the cherries carefully and remove the stones. If you have a pitter, this step will be quicker.
- Cut the cherries in half or quarters, depending on the desired consistency of the jam.
- Preparation of the apple :
- Wash and peel the apple, then cut it into small pieces. The apple will not only thicken the jam thanks to its natural pectin, but it will also add additional sweetness without the need for sugar.
- Cooking :
- In a large pot, combine the cherries and apple. Add the lemon juice.
- Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the fruit from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
- Bring to the boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 30-40 minutes. The fruit should start to fall apart and the mixture should thicken.
- If you want a smoother jam consistency, you can use an immersion blender to puree the fruit.
- Consistency control :
- To check whether the jam has reached the right consistency, place a teaspoon of jam on a cold saucer. If the jam does not flow easily when you tilt the plate, it is ready.
- If the jam is too liquid, continue cooking and repeat the test after a few minutes.
- Put into jars :
- Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about an inch of space from the rim.
- Close the jars with sterilized lids and turn them upside down to create a vacuum.
- Once cooled, check that the center of the lid is slightly concave, a sign that a vacuum has formed.
storage
Store jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep them in the refrigerator and consume the jam within a couple of weeks.
Advice
- Spices : Add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves during cooking for an aromatic touch.
- Other fruits : You can combine cherries with other low-sugar fruits, such as strawberries or blueberries, to create blended jams.
Preparing a sugar-free cherry jam is not only possible, but it can also be a tasty and healthy choice. Experiment with the variations and find the combination you like best, for a sweet and healthy breakfast.