Carrot jam: The surprising and healthy spread you need to try

We most often make jam from fruits, but few people know that vegetables, particularly those with a naturally sweet taste, can also be used for these preserves. A perfect example is the carrot.

Carrot jam is a tasty and healthy treat you can easily prepare at home. Carrot jam has its roots in Portugal. The tradition of making it dates back to when Portugal sought ways to introduce more vegetables into children's diets. As a result, the jam, with its sweetness and delicate taste, quickly gained popularity among children and adults. If you want to surprise your loved ones with an original jam unavailable in stores, this recipe is just for you.

Carrot jam is not only delicious but also a healthy choice. Carrots are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber, making this jam a valuable addition to your diet. The natural sweetness of carrots allows you to reduce the amount of added sugar, which is beneficial for health-conscious individuals.

Carrot jam is excellent on bread, pancakes, crepes, or yogurt. It can also be used as a filling for cakes and cookies, creating unique baked goods that will surprise your guests.

Ingredients for carrot jam:

• 2 pounds of carrots
• 1 cup of sugar
• Juice from one lemon
• Juice from one orange
• Zest from half an orange

Preparation:

1. Wash and peel the carrots, then cut them into small pieces.
2. Cook the carrots in water until soft, about 25-30 minutes. Drain the carrots and blend them into a smooth paste.
3. Transfer the carrot paste to a pot, add sugar, lemon juice, orange juice, and grated orange zest.
4. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until the jam thickens and starts to caramelize slightly, about 10-15 minutes.
5. Transfer the hot jam to sterilized jars, tightly close them, and place them upside down to cool.

Tips and advice:

1. Experiment with spices. To give the jam a more refined taste, add a bit of cinnamon, vanilla, or ginger.
2. If you plan to store the jam for a long, ensure the jars are well sterilized, and the jam is hot when sealing them. This will ensure a longer shelf life.
3. To reduce the amount of sugar, you can replace the sugar with honey or maple syrup, adjusting the amount to your taste preferences.