Surinam cherry jam (gelei)
Surinam cherry jam, known as 'gelei' in Suriname, is a vibrant, tangy preserve made from the small, dark red Surinam cherry (Pitanga) fruit. The fruit is cooked with sugar and often a splash of water or lemon juice to create a thick, glossy spread with a unique sweet-tart flavor profile. It originates from Suriname, a country in South America with strong Caribbean influences, and is a popular homemade condiment in the region.
🍽️ Nutrition at a glance
This jam is primarily a source of quick energy from carbohydrates, specifically sugars, with negligible fat and protein. It provides small amounts of vitamin C and antioxidants from the cherries, and a typical serving contains roughly 50-70 calories.
Nutrition breakdown
| Calories | 55 kcal |
| Protein | 0.1 g |
| Carbs | 14 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Fiber | 0.3 g |
| Sugar | 13 g |
| Vitamin C | 3 mg |
| Potassium | 45 mg |
| Manganese | 0.1 mg |
| Vitamin A | 2 µg RAE |
| Iron | 0.1 mg |
| Magnesium | 2 mg |
Per 1 tablespoon (20 g) · estimated, varies by recipe
💡 What's interesting
Surinam cherries are rich in antioxidants like anthocyanins, which give them their deep color and may offer anti-inflammatory benefits. Culturally, making 'gelei' is a common home-preservation practice in Suriname, often using fruit from backyard trees, reflecting a tradition of seasonal cooking and resourcefulness.
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AI estimate may be inaccurate · Terms