Capture the sweet, summery essence of fresh peaches with our Homemade Şeftali Reçeli, a traditional Turkish peach jam that’s bursting with flavor. This recipe transforms ripe, juicy peaches into a luscious preserve that’s perfect for spreading on bread, stirring into yogurt, or using as a topping for desserts. With its vibrant color and rich taste, Şeftali Reçeli is a beloved staple in Turkish kitchens, offering a delicious way to enjoy the taste of peaches all year round. Whether you’re new to jam-making or a seasoned pro, this peach jam recipe is simple to follow and sure to become a favorite.
Start by peeling the peaches. To do this easily, score a small "X" on the bottom of each peach and blanch them in boiling water for about 30 seconds. Transfer them immediately to an ice bath, and the skins should slip off easily. Dice the peeled peaches into small pieces, removing the pits.
In a large pot, combine the diced peaches, granulated sugar, and water. If using a vanilla bean, split it lengthwise and add it to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally to dissolve the sugar. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and the peaches become soft and translucent. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
Add the fresh lemon juice to the jam during the last 5 minutes of cooking. This will help preserve the color and enhance the flavor of the jam. If using vanilla extract instead of a vanilla bean, stir it in at this point.
To check if the jam has reached the proper consistency, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate and let it cool for a few seconds. If it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it's ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
Remove the vanilla bean if used. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small space at the top. Seal the jars immediately. Let the jars cool to room temperature, then store them in a cool, dark place. The jam can be stored for up to a year.
Our Homemade Şeftali Reçeli is a delightful way to preserve the sweet flavors of summer peaches, offering a versatile jam that pairs beautifully with a variety of foods. This traditional Turkish peach jam is easy to make and brings a touch of homemade goodness to your breakfast table or dessert creations. Whether spread on warm bread or swirled into yogurt, Şeftali Reçeli is a delicious and satisfying treat that captures the essence of ripe, juicy peaches.
Peach Variety: Use ripe, fragrant peaches for the best flavor. White peaches can also be used for a sweeter, milder jam.
Consistency Control: For a chunkier jam, reduce the cooking time slightly, or for a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to puree the mixture before cooking down further.
Flavor Enhancements: Consider adding a cinnamon stick or a few cardamom pods during cooking for a spiced version of the jam.
Storage Tip: If you plan to store the jam for an extended period, ensure the jars are properly sterilized and sealed to prevent spoilage.
Serving Suggestions: Enjoy Şeftali Reçeli on toast, scones, or as a filling for cakes and pastries. It also makes a thoughtful homemade gift.