Over time, preserves have formed part of the essentials in the kitchen. Though preserves began as a means of preservation of fruits, today, we serve them song side meal and this practice has even become a culture in different parts of the world. Preserves come in a variety of forms stored in glass jars with lids. This article will explore some facts about preserves you probably didn’t know.
Facts About Your Preserves
1. The History of Preserves
Preparing preserves dates back to ancient Egypt and Mesopotamia where honey and sugar were used to preserve fruits and vegetables in clay jars with lids, which later advanced to glass jars with lids.
2. How the Advancement of Preserves with Sugar
During the Crusades in Europe, sugar was introduced to Europe from the Middle East. Before that honey was used to make preserves. The introduction of sugar marked a significant advancement, as sugar gradually became a more consistent and effective sweetener for making preserves compared to honey.
3. The Difference Between Preserves and Jam
Did you know that preserves and jams are not the same though often used interchangeably? Though the term “preserves” is used to describe a variety of fruit preserves including marmalade, jellies, fruit curd, chutney, etcetera, the term itself originally refers to a treat that contains large pieces of fruits, which is often chunkier. Jams, on the other hand, contain chopped or crushed fruit. Always know the texture and consistency of both differ.
4. The Role of Glass Jars in Preservation
Did you know that glass jars with lids play a significant and more effective role in caning preserves compared to plastics? Glass jars are impermeable, BPA-free (they do not leach out chemicals into the preserves) and they offer an airtight seal that extends the preserves’ shelf life and prevent spoilage.
5. Preserves and the British Tea Culture
In the United Kingdom, preserves like Marmalade are often served with scones or toast during afternoon tea. This is a British tea tradition. These preserves’ jars featured elegant designs, which reflects the importance of presentation in British culture.
6. The Global Spread of Marmalade
Did you know that marmalade originated from Portugal? In the 18th century, marmalade which was made from quince, became synonymous with the British culture.
7. The Popularity of Homemade Preserves During World War II
Due to food rationing during World War II, families were encouraged to make preserves in jars at home to store and preserve the fruits they grew in their victory gardens.
8. The Role of Pectin in Preserves
Pectin is a natural thickener found in fruits, which is essential in making preserves. Pectin is a natural thickening agent found in fruits. It is essential for making preserves by helping them set and achieve the required consistency.
9. Using Preserves as Culinary Ingredients
Did you know that preserves are used as culinary ingredients? Beyond being used as spread on toast, they are used as ingredients in dishes.
10. Sealing Preserve Jars with Wax
Before the invention of glass jars with lids, people used wax or parchment papers to seal and preserve jars to provide an airtight seal though it usually looked messy it was an effective means of preserving preserves.
11. Best Practice for Choosing Preserves’ Jars
When selecting jars for preserves, opt for the glass jars with airtight lids. Glass jars are sturdy, impermeable and BPA-free containers that are healthier to store food products compared to plastic containers or jars.
12. Using Water Bath Canning
When canning preserves, water bath canning is considered a better canning method. This is because it ensures proper sealing, and preservation over a long period.