Forget everything you think you know about carrot jam! This isn't your grandma's overly sweet, mushy concoction. Our Crispy Carrot Jam recipe delivers a delightful surprise – a vibrant, tangy, and surprisingly crispy spread perfect for the Tet holiday. Imagine the bright orange hue contrasting beautifully with the traditional Tet colors, adding a modern twist to your celebratory meals. This unique jam retains the satisfying crunch of the carrots while offering a sweet and savory flavor profile that’s both unexpected and incredibly delicious. It's the perfect accompaniment to crusty bread, creamy cheeses, or even as a glaze for your favorite meats.
This recipe is surprisingly easy to follow, even for novice cooks. We've perfected a technique to achieve that coveted crispy texture, ensuring a jam that's both visually stunning and bursting with flavor. Ready to elevate your Tet celebrations with this innovative and delicious treat? Let's dive into the simple, step-by-step process and create some magic in your kitchen!
Tools Needed
- peeler
- knife
- grater (optional)
- bowl
- large pot
- stove
- ice water bath
- container for draining
- mixing spoon
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare the Carrots
- Choose fresh, green carrots with shiny skin. Peel and cut off the stem and corners. Soak in salt water .
- Cut carrots in half lengthwise, then into slices of appropriate thickness (not too thin) . Wash three times with water, then soak in rice water for about 6 hours .
- After 6 hours, wash the carrots thoroughly . Boil in 2 liters of water with 1 spoonful of salt and the juice of half a lemon for 2 minutes .
- Immediately transfer the carrots to an ice water bath to maintain crispness .
- Drain the carrots well. Weigh the carrots; you should have approximately 850g .
Step 2. Marinate and Cook the Jam
- Mix the carrots with 425g of sugar (half the weight of the boiled carrots) and let it marinate for 6-8 hours until the sugar dissolves completely .
- Boil the sugar-carrot mixture over high heat until the water reduces . Reduce heat to medium, then low, and continue stirring frequently until the jam is dry and a layer of powder forms on the carrots .
Step 3. Finish and Preserve
- Add vanilla extract and stir well. Turn off the heat and let it dry in the sun for about 2 hours until chewy .
- Store in an airtight container .
Read more: Vietnamese Sponge Wedding Cake: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- Soaking carrots in rice water makes them firmer and crispier .
- Don't cut the carrots too thinly, or they will become hard and dry when making the jam .
- Using lemon juice instead of alum helps preserve the carrots' color and prevents darkening .
- Drying the jam in the sun helps prevent it from becoming watery .
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use other types of carrots for this recipe?
While regular carrots work best for achieving the desired crunch, you can experiment with other varieties. However, the cooking time might need adjustment.
2. How long will the Crispy Carrot Jam last?
Stored properly in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your Crispy Carrot Jam should last for about 2-3 weeks.
This Crispy Carrot Jam is more than just a recipe; it's a vibrant addition to your Tet celebrations, a testament to the innovative spirit of the holiday. Enjoy the satisfying crunch and unique flavor profile, sharing this delightful treat with family and friends. Chúc mừng năm mới – Happy New Year, and happy jamming!