Velvety pumpkin jam: A seasonal delight with health benefits

Autumn is when pumpkins take centre stage on our tables. You can create not only delicious soups, cakes, or salads from its flesh but also a unique pumpkin jam. This aromatic delicacy is perfect for morning toast, fresh baguettes, or pancakes. Pumpkin jam is not only a tasty addition to dishes but also a genuine treasure of health benefits that you can easily prepare at home.

Pumpkin is not only delicious but also a very healthy vegetable. It is rich in beta-carotene, which supports our immune system and has antioxidant effects. Additionally, pumpkin contains fibre, which improves bowel function and helps maintain a healthy weight. Homemade pumpkin jam is an excellent way to give your body these valuable nutrients.

Ingredients:                          

• 2.2 lbs of pumpkin flesh,
• 2.2 lbs of sugar,
• Juice of 1 orange,
• Juice of 2 lemons,
• 1 pinch of salt,
• 1 vanilla bean,
• ½ teaspoon of nutmeg.

Preparation:              

1. Preparing the pumpkin: Cut the pumpkin flesh into smaller pieces and cook in water until soft. Then blend it into a smooth purée.
2. Cooking the jam: Add sugar, lemon and orange juices, seeds from the vanilla bean, and nutmeg to the pot with the purée. Mix everything thoroughly and bring to a boil.
3. Thickening the jam: Cook the jam on medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. To check if the jam is ready, take a small amount on a spoon and let it cool. If the jam does not spread, it is ready.
4. Sterilization: Transfer the hot jam to sterilized jars, seal them, and pasteurize in the oven for about 20 minutes at a temperature of 285°F.

Tips:              

• Choosing the pumpkin: It's best to choose Hokkaido or butternut squash for making the jam.
• Sweetness: If you prefer sweeter jams, you can add more sugar.
• Spices: Experiment with spices. Besides cinnamon and nutmeg, you can add cardamom, ginger, or cloves.
• Preservation: To extend the shelf life of the jam, it's recommended to pasteurize it. This can be done in the oven or in a pot with water.