What is Jam?
Throughout history, different jam recipes have been developed and varied in different cultures. In traditional Turkish cuisine, jam is a delicious product that is especially consumed at breakfast and sometimes used in desserts.
Jam is not only a sweet food but also an excellent method for preserving fruits for a long time. The sugar used in jam making prevents the fruits from spoiling and preserves their flavour. Jam can be made with many different fruits such as strawberries, apricots, and cherries, adding colour to the tables with its aroma and texture.
What Ingredients Are Used in Jam Making?
The main ingredients used in jam making are fruit, sugar, and lemon juice. Fruits are the main component that determines the basic flavour of the jam. The fruits to be used in jam making should be fresh, ripe, and preferably harvested in season. The natural sweetness and aroma of the fruit directly affect the quality of the jam. Sugar is used to extract the juice from the fruits and to form the consistency of the jam. Lemon juice is added to balance the taste and to preserve the colour of the fruits.
Some recipes may also include additional ingredients when making jam. For example, spices such as cinnamon, vanilla, and cloves can add different aromas to the jam. Additionally, thickeners such as gelatin or pectin can make the jam denser. However, in a classic jam recipe, fruit, sugar, and lemon juice are sufficient as the main ingredients.
What Are the Most Popular Types of Jam?
Jam varieties show great diversity depending on the fruits used and the recipes. Here are some of the most popular types of jam:
Strawberry Jam
How Should Jam Be Stored?
To preserve the freshness of the jam for a long time, it is important to store it properly. Jam is usually stored in glass jars, and it should be ensured that these jars are airtight. After the lids are tightly closed, the jam should be stored in a cool, dark, and dry place. Additionally, after opening, the jam should be kept in the refrigerator and taken with a clean spoon. These methods help to preserve the flavour and freshness of the jam for a long time.
