Preserving the taste of summer cherries for the winter months is easier than you think. You don’t need to use sugar or go through the hassle of sterilizing cans. This simple recipe allows you to enjoy the natural sweetness and vibrant flavor of cherries all winter long. Here’s how to do it.

Ingredients You’ll Need:

• Fresh Cherries: 2 pounds (about 1 kilogram), pitted

• Water: Enough to cover the cherries in jars

• Lemon Juice: 2 tablespoons, for preservation and a hint of tang

• Optional Spices: A few cinnamon sticks or cloves for added flavor

Step-by-Step Recipe Guide:

1. Prepare the Cherries:

   • Start by washing the cherries thoroughly. Remove the stems and pit the cherries using a cherry pitter or a small knife. Fresh, ripe cherries work best for this recipe.

2. Fill the Jars:

   • Pack the pitted cherries into clean, dry jars. Fill the jars to the top, leaving about an inch of space. If you like, you can add a cinnamon stick or a few cloves to each jar for extra flavor.

3. Prepare the Brine:

   • In a large pot, bring enough water to a boil to cover the cherries in the jars. Add 2 tablespoons of lemon juice to the water. Lemon juice acts as a natural preservative and helps maintain the color and flavor of the cherries.

4. Pour the Brine:

   • Carefully pour the boiling water into the jars, covering the cherries completely. Make sure to leave a small gap at the top to allow for expansion. The boiling water will help kill any bacteria and preserve the cherries.

5. Seal the Jars:

   • Close the jars tightly with their lids. As the jars cool, you may hear a popping sound, which indicates that they are sealing properly.

6. Store the Jars:

   • Place the jars in a cool, dark place. There’s no need for sterilizing because the boiling water and lemon juice will keep the cherries fresh. Let them sit for at least two weeks before opening to allow the flavors to meld.

Why This Method Works:

• Natural Preservation: The combination of boiling water and lemon juice effectively preserves the cherries without the need for sugar or additional preservatives.

• Simple and Safe: This method simplifies the preservation process, eliminating the need for sterilizing cans, while still ensuring the cherries remain fresh and delicious.

• Versatile Use: These preserved cherries can be used in a variety of winter dishes, from desserts to savory meals, or simply enjoyed on their own.

Tips for Best Results:

• Use Fresh Cherries: The fresher the cherries, the better the final product will taste.

• Tightly Seal: Ensure the jars are sealed properly to prevent any air from entering and spoiling the cherries.

• Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment with other spices like vanilla beans or star anise for different flavor profiles.

This easy, no-sugar method for preserving cherries is perfect for anyone looking to enjoy the natural taste of cherries throughout the winter. With minimal effort and no need for sterilizing, you can have delicious, healthy cherries ready to enhance your winter meals. Enjoy your homemade preserved cherries!