The love behind Greek jams

The love behind Greek jams

Our country, with its wonderful sunshine and warm Mediterranean climate, produces some of the most exquisite Greek fruits of unique taste! Thanks to some old traditional recipes, Greeks are able to preserve those flavorful fruits creating some of the most heavenly jams. But, what makes them stand out in the crowd? Well, the love behind Greek jams!

Food in Greece is something special. it’s more than just a way to fuel our bodies. it’s an expression of love. whether we’re cooking for our families or sharing a meal with friends, food is always at the heart of greek culture. and nowhere is this more evident than in Greek jams.

It’s a must, to only use natural ingredients, alongside the state-of-the-art technology. This is how small craftsmanship is able to create exquisite jams with unique scents and aromas!

Homemade jams are some of the first tasting steps Greeks take into the sweet essence of life.

Young Greeks grow up with a very specific kind of breakfast. Thick slices of freshly baked warm bread, slathered with real butter and topped with the piece of resistance, the homemade jam. Flavors vary, honestly depending on what fruit – or vegetable is in season at the time!

In fact, just to name a few: You can find jams made out of oranges, cherries, watermelon, grapes and all kinds of stone fruits. Even olives, chestnuts, and figs. But truly the love behind Greek jams is what gives them this characteristic divine taste!

Whenever any kind of fruit it’s in its prime season, you will find in any Greek household large pots with a tanned bottom, filled with what will later become jam. Only the most experienced hands know how to do it right and how to fill he atmosphere with the delectable aroma of homemade jam! Soon after, the final product ends up in sterile jars.

The moment that fresh fruits transform their juices into the luscious texture that will fill any home with zestful smells, is, to say the least delightful.

The love behind Greek jams is indeed their secret ingredient! It provides a lot more than just taste. It is what makes you remember the exact moment you tasted it. And pushes you to share this experience with your loved ones as well.

_____________________________________________________________________

Now time for dessert! This tangerine jam is what your taste buds have been waiting for so long! (If you make it let us know!)

|Recipe|

Portion: about 1,400 grams

Preparation: 10 ‘

Cooking time: 55 ‘

Degree of difficulty: Easy

Ingredients: 1,400 g tangerines well-washed, zest of 3 tangerines, 1 kg of sugar, 250 ml of water.

Procedure: Fill a pot with boiling water and boil the tangerines for about 30 minutes. Drain them and let them cool. Cut them in the middle, remove the granules and films and beat the remaining in the mixer until you get a smooth paste. In a pot, boil the sugar in 250ml water over medium heat for about 3 minutes or until the sugar melts. Add the tangerine paste and continue boiling for another 15-20 minutes, stirring with a wooden spoon until the mixture gets combined. Pour in the tangerine zest, stir for 1-2 minutes and remove from the heat. Store in sterile jars.

Regional Variations and Specialties of Greek Jams

In the diverse landscape of Greece, each region boasts its unique culinary treasures, and Greek jams are no exception. From the sun-kissed islands of the Aegean Sea to the lush mountains of the mainland, the country’s varied geography gives rise to an array of regional variations and specialties when it comes to jam-making. Let’s take a delightful journey through some of the most remarkable regional jams that capture the essence of Greece’s diverse terroir and local traditions.

1. Cretan Citrus Marmalades: The island of Crete is renowned for its citrus fruits, including oranges, lemons, and bitter oranges. Cretan marmalades are a delightful combination of tangy and sweet flavors, reflecting the island’s abundant citrus orchards. The bitter orange marmalade, in particular, stands out with its unique flavor profile and is a cherished part of Cretan breakfast spreads.

2. Santorini Tomato Jam: Santorini, known for its picturesque sunsets and volcanic landscape, is also famous for its distinctive tomato jam. The island’s nutrient-rich volcanic soil imparts a sweet and intense flavor to the tomatoes, resulting in a jam that is unlike any other. Santorini tomato jam pairs wonderfully with local cheeses and traditional Greek dishes.

3. Peloponnesian Fig Preserves: The Peloponnese region is abundant in fig trees, and its fig preserves are a delightful treat for those with a sweet tooth. These velvety preserves boast a rich, caramel-like flavor that perfectly complements Greek yoghurt, cheeses, and crusty bread.

4. Macedonian Cherry Spoon Sweets: The region of Macedonia in northern Greece is famous for its cherry spoon sweets. These preserves are made by gently cooking whole cherries in syrup until they become tender and glossy. They are traditionally served on a small spoon as a gesture of hospitality to guests.

5. Thessalian Plum Preserves: Thessaly, known as the “breadbasket of Greece,” is home to abundant plum orchards. Thessalian plum preserves are made with plump, juicy plums that are cooked to perfection, preserving their natural sweetness and vibrant color. These preserves are often enjoyed with Greek desserts or as a topping for ice cream.

6. Epirus Quince Jam: Epirus, in northwestern Greece, is known for its quince orchards. Quince jam from this region has a delightful balance of sweet and tart flavors, making it a perfect accompaniment to various cheeses, especially hard, salty varieties.

7. Ionian Grape Spoon Sweets: The Ionian Islands are renowned for their grape spoon sweets, made with small, seedless grapes. These sweets are a delightful way to preserve the essence of freshly harvested grapes and are often enjoyed as a refreshing dessert after meals.

Each of these regional variations of Greek jams represents a unique aspect of the local culture, traditions, and natural abundance. Whether it’s the sun-drenched fruits of Crete or the volcanic tomatoes of Santorini, Greek jams offer a taste of the diverse landscapes and culinary heritage of this beautiful Mediterranean country. When visiting Greece or exploring Greek cuisine, be sure to savor these delightful jams, which are lovingly crafted to capture the essence of each region and the heart of Greek hospitality.

Learn more about: Greek Cuisine