Jam definition: all you need to know about this sweet, fruit-based sweetness
Definition of jam
Jam, also called jelly or marmalade, is a sweet preparation obtained from whole fruit or cut into pieces, pulp or a mixture of these two elements, cooked with sugar and gelling agent. It is usually eaten on toast or as an ingredient in various baking recipes.
The choice of fruits for a successful jam
For the preparation of a jam, it is important to choose quality fruits. Fruit should be ripe, firm and without spots. It is best to use seasonal fruits as they are tasty and richer in flavor. The most common fruits used for the preparation of jams are strawberries, cherries, raspberries, apricots, oranges and lemons.
The preparation of the jam begins with the preparation of the fruit. These should be washed, peeled and cut into small pieces. Fruit can be cooked whole, but it’s best to cut it into chunks for better flavor distribution. The cut fruit is then put in a saucepan with sugar and gelling agent, then cooked over medium heat until the desired consistency is reached.
Jam is a culinary preparation obtained by cooking fruit and sugar. The word comes from the Latin “confictura”, meaning “action of preparing” and was invented in the Middle Ages. Today there is a wide variety of jams, ranging from the most classic such as orange or strawberry, to the most original, such as prune jam with Armagnac or green tomato jam. To succeed in your jam every time, it is important to follow a few simple tips. First of all, it is advisable to choose seasonal, fresh and ripe fruits to obtain an optimal taste and a good texture. Next, sugar should be added in the right amount to allow the jam to freeze. It is also possible to use pectin, a substance naturally present in fruits, to speed up the setting. Finally, the cooking must be monitored regularly to prevent the jam from burning and to determine the time needed to reach the desired consistency. Beyond the technical know-how, jam also allows you to give free rein to your creativity by using spices, herbs or alcohols to add an original touch to your recipe. To conclude, jam is an easy-to-make culinary preparation, highly appreciated for its sweet and fruity taste. By following the tips and daring to combine flavors, everyone can create their own homemade jam. For more information, you can consult this article which offers practical advice for a successful jam every time: Tips for successful jam every time.
The different types of gelling agents for jam
There are different types of gelling agents used for the preparation of jam. The most common are agar-agar, fruit pectin, special jam sugar and gelatin. Agar-agar is a seaweed-based powder that gels cold or hot preparations. Fruit pectin is a naturally occurring substance found in certain varieties of fruit, such as apples, oranges, and strawberries. Special jam sugar already contains pectin, which makes the jam easier to set. Gelatin is a gelling agent of animal origin which is also used for the preparation of jams, although many people avoid using it for ethical and religious reasons.
The benefits of homemade jam
Homemade jam has many advantages over industrial jam. First of all, it is healthier because it does not contain food additives or preservatives. Moreover, you can adapt the amount of sugar according to your taste preferences and you can also control the texture and flavor of the jam by using different types of fruits, gelling agents and adding spices or alcohol. Finally, homemade jam is more economical because it is made with fresh ingredients and often cheaper than industrial jam.
There are many brands of jam available in the market. Some of the best known brands are Good Mom, St. Dalfour, Hero And Tiptree. These brands offer a wide range of jams in different flavors and textures. However, it should be noted that industrial jams may contain food additives, refined sugar and other ingredients that are not necessary for the preparation of homemade jam.
Jam is a sweet product that is mainly used to spread on bread or on rusks. But what exactly is jam? According to the different definitions that can be found on the site https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jam, jam is a culinary preparation made from fruit cooked with sugar. It is a preservation technique that allows the fruit to be preserved for longer. It is therefore very popular for its sweet taste and creamy texture.
The notion of jam is very old and dates back to Antiquity, where jams were already made from figs, dates, grapes, etc. However, it was in the Middle Ages that it really developed in Europe, with sweet and savory recipes used for meat or fish. Today, you can find all kinds of jams, made from fresh or dried fruit, natural or flavored, but the most classic are strawberry, apricot, cherry, blackberry or orange jams.
The preparation of the jam is simple but must be done with care. First you need to clean and cut the fruits, then heat them with sugar until they are cooked and the mixture thickens. You can then pour the preparation into sterilized jars and keep them cool for better preservation. In addition, jam is very useful in the kitchen to make desserts, sauces or accompany savory dishes.
In short, jam is an old, simple and tasty culinary preparation that allows you to enjoy fruit all year round. The different recipes and varieties can satisfy everyone and there is something for everyone. If you want to treat yourself or your loved ones, don’t hesitate to try making your own jam at home!
The different definitions of jam
Jam FAQs
What is jam?
Jam is a sweet preparation made from whole fruit, pulp or a mixture of both, cooked with sugar and gelling agent.
How to make homemade jam?
To make a success of your homemade jam, it is important to choose ripe and quality fruits, to cut them into small pieces, to cook them with sugar and gelling agent until obtaining the desired consistency, and to put them in sterilized jars. .
How long can you keep homemade jam?
Homemade jam can be stored for up to a year if properly sterilized and sealed in an airtight jar. However, once opened, it is recommended to consume it within a few weeks.
Can you use frozen fruit to make jam?
Yes, it is possible to use frozen fruit to make jam. However, fruit should be thawed before use and cooked in the same way as fresh fruit.
Is jam good for health?
Jam is high in sugar, which makes it an important source of calories. However, it also contains vitamins and antioxidants from the fruits used in its preparation. It is recommended to consume jam in moderation as part of a balanced diet.