What is Magiun de Topoloveni?
Magiun of Topoloveni is a traditional Romanian plum spread, recognized with Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) status by the European Union since 2011. This specialty, made from carefully selected, fully ripened plum varieties, is crafted without any added sugar, making it a natural, authentic jam. Originating from the town of Topoloveni and neighboring villages in Argeș County.
The secret to preparing this type of jam
Jam is typically made by adding sugar and various additives during the production process. The secret of Topoloveni plum jam lies in using a precise blend of different plum varieties, relying on their natural sugars to preserve the jam without the need for additives or added sugar.
History
It was established in 1914 as the first factory of its kind in Romania, known as the “Topoloveni Cooperative,” where plum jam and other fruit preserves were produced. After the December 1989 Revolution, the factory in Topoloveni gradually declined.
Topoloveni plum jam became Romania’s first certified natural product, protected by the European Union through Order no. 338/2011. The European Commission recognized it with both a protected designation of origin (PDO) and a protected geographical indication (PGI).
In 2009, Topoloveni’s 100% natural plum jam replaced marmalade in all NATO bases, and in 2010, the Topoloveni factory was designated an official supplier to the Romanian Royal House.
How it was made?
Traditionally, Topoloveni plum jam (magiun) is cooked in a cauldron outdoors. To avoid smoking, it requires constant stirring, especially towards the end, preferably over low heat.
An ideal setup includes two pits—one under the cauldron and one nearby for producing embers that are gradually transferred under the cauldron. Plums are washed, de-stemmed, and pitted, then placed in the cauldron with some water to start the boiling process. After four to five hours of simmering, with constant stirring, the mixture reduces by 70% and turns a dark reddish-purple with a thick consistency.
Once the jam is ready, it is transferred to sterilized jars and stored in a cool, dry place, typically the pantry, where it can last for months.
Home Made version
For a simplified home version, the plums are cleaned, pitted, and placed in an oven-safe pot. The jam is cooked at 160°C for 6-8 hours, with regular stirring. The result is a traditional jam made without sugar or preservatives. Some variations may include adding nuts or rum for extra flavor.
Pro tip: You can find it in the supermarkets and online
Sources: https://www.stiridiaspora.ro/magiun-de-prune-traditional-o-reteta-autentica-si-naturala_521882.html
.https://anchetaonline.ro/magiunul-topoloveni-traditie-gust-autentic-romanesc-184750/
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