Date Jam

Method

1. Cut the dates in half, remove the stones and cut the date into small pieces. 
2. Cut the apple into small pieces and blend it quickly in the mixer along with the lemon juice.
3. Pour the apple and dates into a saucepan with high sides, add the sugar and water. 
4. Mix everything well and put on the stove. 
5. Light the burner, cover with a lid and cook for 35-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Pour the hot jam into jars (well washed and dried), close them with their own cap and sterilize by boiling for 25 minutes in a pot, completely covered with hot water.
7. Drain the jars, allow them to cool completely and keep them in a cool, dry place.

This recipe was created by the foodblogger Elena Levati for Noberasco

Chef's tip

If you like spices you can add a tablespoon of cinnamon while cooking the jam!

Serving suggestion

This jam tastes great on bread or on melba toasts, dunked in a nice cappuccino or caffèlatte. But why not trying out something different and spread it on mature or fresh cheeses? You'll be amazed how good it can be!

Wine selection

You can enjoy this jam on homemade whole wheat bread while sipping on some Moscato d’Asti DOCG or on any other sweet dessert wine. If you are eating it with cheese, then a sweet white wine would be a good choice!

Family tip

You can make jams with almost any dried fruits: try replacing the dates with dried apricots or figs!

Dish history

Dates, especially the Deglet Nour variety, are considered 'the gold of Mediterranean Africa' and are amongst the most delicious and sugary fruits on Earth. Wonderful eaten fresh as well as dried, with their delightful taste and rich consistency, dates are an ideal ingredient both in sweet and savoury dishes. This recipe shows you how to turn these gorgeous fruits into a smooth, extraordinary jam. Let it sweeten up your life and why not, give it as a present to the people you love the most!