Strawberry and raspberry jam

Strawberry and Raspberry Jam: A Sweet Adventure in a Jar

Who can resist the charm of strawberries, with their delicate fragrance and unmistakable flavor? They are a little treasure of nature, an ideal ingredient for creating delights that will fill your heart with joy. In this recipe, I invite you to discover the magic of strawberry and raspberry jam, a perfect combination of the delicacy of strawberries and the acidity of raspberries, which will turn any meal into a festive occasion. Let’s embark together on this culinary journey!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30-35 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 jars (depending on size)

Ingredients:
- 1 kg strawberries (you can easily use 700 g strawberries and the remaining 300 g raspberries, according to your preference)
- 600 g sugar (choose white sugar or brown sugar for a more complex taste)
- 1 glass of water (approximately 250 ml)
- Juice of one lemon (approximately 30 ml)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by carefully washing the strawberries and raspberries under a stream of cold water. Make sure the strawberries are intact, without spots or brown parts. If you are using larger strawberries, you can cut them in half or quarters. Carefully remove the stems.

2. Boiling the sugar: In a heavy-bottomed cooking pot, add the sugar and the glass of water. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly with a wooden spoon until the sugar completely dissolves. This will create a delicious syrup that will embrace the fruits.

3. Adding the fruits: Once the sugar has melted and the syrup begins to boil, add the strawberries and raspberries. Gently stir, being careful not to crush the fruits. It is important to maintain a constant temperature, so adjust the heat to keep it at a low boil.

4. Cooking the jam: Let the mixture boil for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. You will notice that the fruits will release their juice, and the mixture will take on a vibrant color. This is the moment when the aroma of the jam will fill your kitchen!

5. Adding the lemon juice: After the fruits have cooked, add the lemon juice. This will not only provide a slight tanginess but will also help preserve the jam. Let everything boil for another 5 minutes.

6. Cooling and bottling: Once the cooking time has elapsed, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for about 10 minutes. Then, prepare the sterilized jars (you can do this by boiling them or running them through a dishwasher cycle). Pour the jam into the jars, filling them almost to the top. Cover the jars with lids and wrap them in a blanket to help them cool slowly.

7. Serving and storing: The strawberry and raspberry jam can be stored at room temperature for several months. You can use it on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for pastries. It is also delicious combined with yogurt or cottage cheese.

Practical tip: If you desire a smoother jam, you can strain the mixture through a sieve before pouring it into jars, removing the raspberry seeds. This will create a more uniform texture, but keep in mind that the seeds contribute to an authentic taste.

Nutritional benefits: Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, providing a healthy boost to your diet. Raspberries, on the other hand, contain essential vitamins and minerals that support heart health. This jam is not just a treat for your taste buds, but also a healthier choice for desserts.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use other fruits instead of raspberries?
Of course! You can experiment with other berries like blackberries or currants. Each combination will bring a unique flavor.

- How can I tell if the jam is ready?
A simple method is to place a drop of jam on a cold plate. If it holds together and does not run, it is ready!

- What are the best ways to serve strawberry and raspberry jam?
I recommend serving it with warm muffins, on pancakes, or as a topping for ice cream. It is also fantastic combined with goat cheese or cottage cheese.

In conclusion, this strawberry and raspberry jam recipe is not only simple but also an excellent way to preserve the taste of summer in jars. Whether you serve it at breakfast or use it as a filling for desserts, each spoonful will bring a smile to your face. So, what are you waiting for? Put on an apron and let the aromas of this delicious recipe carry you away!