Bergamotto (Bergamot) jam is a fragrant and unique spread made from the citrus fruit known as bergamot, which is primarily grown in the Calabria region of southern Italy. Bergamot has a distinctive flavor that’s a cross between an orange and a lemon, with floral, tangy, and slightly bitter notes. It’s the same fruit used to flavor Earl Grey tea, but in jam form, it brings an elegant complexity and aromatic freshness.
The jam is typically made by cooking down the bergamot fruit with sugar, sometimes adding a touch of lemon or other citrus to balance the flavor. The result is a smooth, aromatic spread with a sweet, slightly tart profile and a fragrant citrus scent that makes it quite different from more common jams.
Bergamot jam is fantastic on toast or served with pastries, and it pairs wonderfully with cheese, especially soft or tangy varieties like ricotta, goat cheese, or mascarpone. It’s also delicious in desserts, or even paired with roasted meats for an interesting contrast of flavors. It’s a truly unique and sophisticated jam that captures the essence of the Calabrian terroir.