If you’re looking to add a touch of French cuisine to your culinary adventures, look no further than French gourmet jams. These sweet, flavourful spreads are a staple in many French homes, and not just for spreading on toast. From pastries and meats to sauces and dressings, there are so many ways to incorporate these delectable jams into your cooking. Here are some creative ideas to get you started.
Pastries
One of the most popular ways to use French gourmet jams is as a filling for pastries. Croissants, danishes, and tarts all benefit from the addition of a sweet jam filling. Try using a raspberry jam to fill a classic croissant, or add a dollop of apricot jam to a danish for a burst of fruity flavour. For something a bit more savoury, consider using fig jam to fill a puff pastry turnover with goat cheese for a delicious appetizer.
Meats
While using jam on meat might sound unusual, it’s actually a common practice in French cooking. Pork, lamb, and duck all pair well with a sweet jam glaze. Try brushing a mixture of apricot jam and mustard onto a roasted pork loin for a tangy and sweet flavour. A black currant jam glaze can add depth to a roasted lamb rack. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try a cherry jam and red wine reduction as a sauce for seared duck breast.
Sauces and Dressings
French artisanal jams make for fantastic bases for sauces and dressings. A strawberry jam and balsamic vinegar reduction pairs well with a salad of mixed greens and goat cheese. A fig jam and red wine sauce is perfect for drizzling over a juicy steak. And a blueberry jam and olive oil dressing adds a punch of flavour to a simple Mediterranean pasta salad.
With so many ways to use French gourmet jams in your cooking, you’ll never need to settle for boring food again. So why not add a jar or two to your pantry and start experimenting? Bon appétit!
