Acacia flower harvest in the Caucasus Mountains! - Making fresh Acacia flower jam in the village

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The Caucasus Mountains are known for their rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes, making them an ideal location for harvesting acacia flowers for culinary purposes. Acacia flowers, often called black locust flowers, are known for their sweet and fragrant aroma. They are commonly used in the Caucasus region to make delicacies such as acacia flower jam.
Here's how acacia flower jam can be made in a village setting:
Ingredients:
Fresh acacia flowers: Only use flowers that have been freshly harvested. Ensure they are clean and free of debris.
Sugar: To sweeten the jam and preserve it.
Water: To create the syrup base for the jam.
Lemon juice: Optional, but it can help preserve the jam and balance the sweetness.
Equipment:
Large pot: For cooking the jam.
Spoon or ladle: For stirring the jam during cooking.
Jars: For storing the jam. Make sure they are sterilized.
Lid: Sterilized lids to seal the jars.
Method:
Prepare the flowers:
Begin by gently washing the acacia flowers to remove any insects or dirt.
Pick the flowers from their stems and remove any green parts. The petals should be separated from the stems.
Create a sugar syrup:
In a large pot, combine water and sugar in a ratio of 2:1 (two parts sugar to one part water) or adjust to your taste.
Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved and the liquid is clear.
Add the flowers:
Once the sugar syrup is ready, add the acacia flowers to the pot.
Gently stir the mixture to coat the flowers in the syrup.
Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 15-20 minutes. The flowers will infuse the syrup with their flavor.
Add lemon juice (optional):
For added flavor and to help preserve the jam, you can add a splash of lemon juice to the mixture.
Cook until thick:
Allow the mixture to cook until it thickens. This may take around 30 minutes.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Test the consistency:
To check if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a cool plate and let it sit for a few seconds. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it's ready.
Pour into sterilized jars:
Carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top.
Wipe the rims of the jars clean and seal with sterilized lids.
Store the jam:
Let the jars cool at room temperature before storing them in a cool, dark place.
The jam can be enjoyed immediately or stored for later use.
Acacia flower jam is a delightful and unique treat that captures the essence of the Caucasus Mountains. It can be enjoyed on bread, pastries, or simply by the spoonful for a burst of floral sweetness!
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