Strawberry jam and jelly

Strawberry Jam and Preserve - Classic Recipe

Strawberry jam is a delicacy that takes us back to sunny summers, strolls through orchards, and the enticing aromas of fresh fruits. This simple yet spectacular recipe will transform your strawberries into a treat that you can enjoy all year round. Here’s how to make a delicious jam and preserve with an authentic taste, using a classic 1:1 ratio of strawberries to sugar.

Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour (for jam)
Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of Servings: Approximately 10 jars of 400g

Ingredients:
- 5 kg fresh strawberries
- 5 kg granulated sugar
- 4 lemons (juice and zest)

The History of Strawberry Jam
Strawberry jam is one of the most beloved fruit preserves, with a long-standing tradition in many cultures. Our ancestors found in fruit preservation a way to keep the flavors of the warm season throughout the year. This simple recipe is a tribute to those times, bringing the goodness of nature to the table.

Step by Step to Achieve Perfect Strawberry Jam and Preserve:

1. Preparing the Strawberries:
- Start by washing the strawberries well under cold running water to remove any impurities.
- Remove the stems, ensuring no inedible parts remain. It is essential to use ripe and healthy strawberries for an intense flavor.
- A good idea is to choose seasonal fruits, as they have a more pronounced aroma and sweetness.

2. Mixing with Sugar:
- Place the cleaned strawberries in a large pot, preferably stainless steel, ideal for making jams.
- Add the sugar over the strawberries and mix well. Let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes, allowing the sugar to start dissolving. This will help extract juice from the strawberries, forming a delicious base.

3. Cooking the Jam:
- Place the pot on low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Once the sugar has completely dissolved, add the lemon juice and zest. These will add a pleasant acidity and help preserve the jam.
- During cooking, you will notice foam forming on the surface. It is important to remove it with a spoon to achieve a clear and smooth jam.

4. Cooking in Batches for Jam:
- If you want a preserve, boil the mixture in three batches of 5-7 minutes each, allowing it to cool between each batch. This method will help develop the flavors and achieve an ideal texture.
- To check the consistency, you can do a plate test: drop a few drops of jam and let them cool. If the drops remain round and do not spread, the jam is ready.

5. Cooking for Jam:
- If you prefer a thicker jam, let the mixture boil longer, about 1 hour and 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. The test for jam is the same, on a plate, ensuring that the jam binds well and has a thick texture.

6. Bottling:
- Once the jam or preserve is ready, pour it into sterilized jars, ensuring they are completely clean to prevent contamination.
- Seal the jars well, allowing them to cool to room temperature. It is recommended to store them in cool, dark places to maintain freshness.

Practical Tips:
- Choosing Strawberries: Choose high-quality strawberries, preferably organic, to avoid pesticides and enjoy an authentic taste.
- Sugar: You can experiment with alternative sugars, such as coconut sugar, but the result will be slightly different in terms of flavor and texture.
- Aromatic Additions: You can also add a few mint or basil leaves during cooking for an extra aromatic touch.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- How can I preserve the jam for longer? - Ensure that the jars are properly sterilized and that the jam is stored in a dark, cool place.
- Can I add other fruits? - Absolutely! You can combine strawberries with raspberries or blueberries for a delicious mixed jam.

Serving Suggestions:
Strawberry jam is perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for cakes. It can also be used as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, adding extra flavor and color.

Nutritional Benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to immune system health and improving digestion. Strawberry jam, although it contains sugar, can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a balanced diet.

In conclusion, making strawberry jam and preserve is a simple yet extremely satisfying process. With each jar filled, you will feel closer to nature and the culinary traditions that unite us. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and share this delicacy with your loved ones!