| Prep: 5 mins | Cook: 15 mins – 20 mins | Difficulty: Easy | Serves: 6 |
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbs |
| 315 | 0g | 0g | 80g |
| sugars | fibre | protein | salt |
| 75g | 4g | 1g | 0.02g |
Every now and then, I stumble across a recipe that tugs at my heartstrings and takes me back to the cherished memories of my Italian grandparents’ kitchen. The Vanilla and Currant Jam is a perfect example of one such recipe. Just the thought of it makes my heart swell with an overwhelming sense of nostalgia.
A Tribute to my Roots
My grandparents, like most Italians, had a knack for turning the simplest of ingredients into dishes which carried the warmth of a thousand suns. Much like their spaghetti and meatballs, this jam recipe is a testament to that philosophy. It’s a tantalizing blend of sweet currants and aromatic vanilla with a hint of zesty lemon – a balancing act of flavours that represents the delicate harmony in Italian cuisine.
Reaping the Rewards of Simple Ingredients
The Vanilla and Currant Jam is not just rich in flavors but also packed with health benefits. Currants are a great source of essential nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber. They are also known for their antioxidant properties. Plus, vanilla beans are a great source of antioxidants too. Not only do they add a lovely fragrance and flavor, but they are also incredibly good for your health. This jam is a rich, flavorful treat that you can enjoy without any guilt.
This delightful jam is a tribute to my grandparents’ homemade preserves with a unique twist. It’s similar to traditional fruit spreads like strawberry or blueberry jam, yet its taste is unique due to the combination of the tartness of the currants and the sweet flavor of the vanilla. You can spread it over a slice of warm toasted bread for breakfast or serve it as a topping for vanilla ice cream or pancakes for a delectable dessert. These homemade pancakes or this classic vanilla ice cream would be a great accompaniment.
As a loving grandfather who enjoys both hiking and hearty meals, I appreciate the balance this jam provides, fulfilling my craving for both sweet and healthy food. And in true spirit to my grandparent’s culinary teachings, it makes me happy to know that I am passing along the tradition of creating wholesome and heartwarming dishes to my grandchildren.
What You’ll Need
- 3 cups of fresh currants
- 1.5 cups of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of pectin
- 1 Vanilla bean, split and seeds scraped
- 0.5 cup of water
Method
Step One
Start by preparing your currants. Rinse 3 cups of fresh currants under cold water, remove any stems, and set them aside.
Step Two
In a large pan, add the granulated sugar, split and scraped vanilla bean, and half a cup of water. Warm the mixture over a medium heat, continually stirring until the sugar is fully dissolved.
Step Three
Add the prepared fresh currants and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice into the pan. Keep the heat at medium and continue to stir.
Step Four
Allow the mixture to come to a gentle boil. Keep stirring and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the currants have fully broken down.
Step Five
Slowly sprinkle 1 teaspoon of pectin across the surface of the simmering jam, constantly stirring in order to fully incorporate it into the jam. Make sure there are no clumps.
Step Six
Let your mixture simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat. Allow the jam to cool a little before transferring into sterilised jars.
Step Seven
Serve your homemade Vanilla and Currant jam or seal the jars and store them for later use. Your jam will keep for up to a year if properly stored in a cool, dark place.
