GOURMET APRICOT & PISTACHIO JAM – A DELICIOUSLY LUXURIOUS TREAT
My latest gourmet jam is a fantastic combination that pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like Brie. The smooth apricot base enriched with roasted pistachios creates an elegant spread perfect for special occasions or indulgent breakfasts.
🕒 Prep Time: 20 min
🍳 Cook Time: 30-35 min
🍽️ Yields: About 5 jars (150 ml each)
Ingredients
- 2 kg apricots
- 650 g sugar
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 100 g shelled pistachios (without skins)
Instructions
- Select, wash, and pit the apricots. Pass the apricot flesh through a food mill or tomato press to separate the pulp from the skins, resulting in a smooth puree.
- In a wide pot, combine the apricot puree, sugar, and lemon juice. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally until the sugar dissolves.
- Once boiling, increase heat to medium and cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. Skim off any foam that forms. To reduce foam, add a small cube of butter if necessary.
- Lower heat and continue simmering for another 15 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. The jam should thicken and reduce slightly.
- While the jam simmers, lightly toast the pistachios in the oven. Chop them coarsely with a knife.
- Stir the toasted pistachios into the jam and cook on low heat for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Sterilize jars by washing, drying, and placing them in a 200°C oven for 20 minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into warm sterilized jars, wipe rims clean, seal tightly, and invert jars to create a vacuum seal. Let sit inverted for 10 minutes.
- Wrap jars in a blanket and allow them to cool overnight in a dry draft-free place.
- Store jam in a cool cellar or pantry. Note that the pistachio addition shortens the jam’s shelf life compared to plain apricot jam.
💡 Tips
- Using a food mill ensures a silky smooth apricot base.
- Toasting pistachios enhances their flavor and crunch.
- Skimming foam and adding butter keeps jam clear and prevents boil-over.
- Proper sterilization and vacuum sealing preserve freshness.
🍽️ Perfect For
- Pairing with creamy cheeses like Brie
- Elegant breakfast spreads and desserts
- Gourmet homemade gifts
📝 Final Thoughts
This apricot and pistachio jam offers a luxurious blend of fruity sweetness and nutty richness. Its refined flavor and texture make it a standout addition to your pantry and a delightful companion to cheese boards and pastries.