Pekmez and Orange Jam Recipe

Ingredients with Measurements:
- 4 cups of fresh oranges, peeled and chopped
- 2 cups of pekmez (grape molasses)
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract

Special equipment needed:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon
- Mason jars with lids

Step-by-step instructions:

1. In a large saucepan, combine the chopped oranges, pekmez, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well.

2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.

3. Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the oranges are soft.

4. Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.

5. Using a blender or an immersion blender, blend the mixture until it is smooth.

6. Pour the jam into sterilized mason jars and let them cool to room temperature.

7. Store the jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.


Time:
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Temperature:
Medium-high heat for boiling, low heat for simmering
Serving size:
Makes about 4 cups of jam

Nutritional information:
Calories: 70 per tablespoon
Total fat: 0g
Saturated fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 0mg
Total carbohydrates: 18g
Dietary fiber: 0g
Sugars: 16g
Protein: 0g

Substitutions for ingredients:
- You can substitute oranges with any other citrus fruit, such as lemons or grapefruits.
- You can substitute pekmez with honey or maple syrup.

Variations:
- Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a spiced version of the jam.
- Add chopped nuts, such as walnuts or almonds, for a crunchy texture.

Tips and tricks:
- Use a wooden spoon to stir the jam to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the saucepan.
- To sterilize the mason jars, wash them in hot soapy water, rinse well, and then place them in a pot of boiling water for 10 minutes.
- To test if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a plate and let it cool. If it thickens and wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it is ready.

Storage instructions:
Store the jars in the refrigerator for up to 3 months.

Reheating instructions:
To reheat the jam, place the jar in a bowl of hot water until it reaches room temperature.

Presentation ideas:
Serve the jam in a small bowl with a spoon for spreading.

Garnishes:
Garnish the jam with a slice of orange or a sprig of mint.

Pairings:
Serve the jam with toast, scones, or biscuits.

Suggested side dishes:
Serve the jam with a cheese platter or a charcuterie board.

Troubleshooting advice:
- If the jam is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes until it thickens.
- If the jam is too thick, add a splash of water or orange juice to thin it out.

Food safety advice:
- Always use clean and sterilized jars to prevent contamination.
- Store the jars in the refrigerator to prevent spoilage.
- Discard any jars that show signs of mold or spoilage.

Food history:
Pekmez and orange jam is a traditional Turkish recipe that dates back centuries. Pekmez is a sweet syrup made from grapes that is commonly used in Turkish cuisine.

Flavor profiles:
The jam has a sweet and tangy flavor with a hint of vanilla.

Serving suggestions:
Serve the jam as a spread on toast, scones, or biscuits.

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Region: Turkish

Taste: Sweet, Tangy, Citrusy, Fruity