Strawberry jam and syrup

Strawberry Jam and Syrup Recipe

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6 jars of jam and 2.25 liters of syrup

If you are looking for a delicious way to preserve the flavor of summer, strawberry jam and syrup are excellent choices. These treats not only bring a touch of sunshine to chilly days, but they are also a healthy alternative to store-bought juices, which are often full of sugar and preservatives. Preparing them is a pleasant activity that will bring joy to you and your loved ones. Let’s get started!

Ingredients

- 2.5 kg fresh strawberries
- 2 kg sugar
- 1 lemon (juice)

Ingredient details

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy diet. Choose ripe, fragrant, and firm strawberries for the best results. Sugar not only sweetens but also helps preserve the jam and syrup, preventing bacterial growth. Lemon adds a fresh taste and helps stabilize the color of the jam.

Step by Step

Step 1: Preparing the strawberries

Start by washing the strawberries well under cold running water. Make sure to remove any impurities or leaves. After washing, remove the stems and cut the strawberries in half or quarters, depending on their size. This will help release the juice during the cooking process.

Step 2: Layering strawberries with sugar

In a large pot, arrange the strawberries in an even layer and sprinkle the sugar on top. Cover the pot and let it sit for about 30 minutes. This process will help the sugar dissolve and extract the juice from the strawberries, turning them into a delicious paste.

Step 3: Cooking the syrup

Place the pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally to help the sugar dissolve completely. Once the sugar has melted, use a strainer or cheesecloth to strain the juice. Make sure to extract as much liquid from the strawberries as possible. This juice will become your syrup.

Step 4: Sterilizing the bottles

Before proceeding, it is essential to sterilize the bottles in which you will pour the syrup. You can do this with a steam bath: fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Place the bottles inside and let them sit for 10-15 minutes. Then, remove them and let them cool.

Step 5: Making the jam

To prepare the jam, add the remaining 500 g of sugar to the strained juice. Place the mixture over medium heat, stirring constantly. It is important to remove the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear and delicious jam.

Step 6: Adding lemon juice

When the mixture begins to boil, add the lemon juice. This will not only enhance the flavor of the jam but also help to bind it. Continue to boil the mixture for about 30 minutes, or until it thickens well. To check the consistency, you can do the plate test: place a drop of jam on a cold plate and if it doesn’t spread, it’s ready.

Step 7: Jar the jam

Once the jam has thickened properly, remove it from the heat and immediately pour it into the sterilized jars. Seal them tightly with the lids and let them cool to room temperature.

Practical tips

- Make sure to use clean cooking utensils to avoid contamination.
- If you want a smoother jam, you can use a blender to puree the strawberries before adding the sugar.
- Experiment with added flavors, such as vanilla or mint, to give your jam a special taste.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw and drain them well before use to avoid excess water in the jam.

2. What is the shelf life of the jam?
If stored properly (in a dry, dark, and cool place), the jam can last up to 1 year.

3. How can I enhance the flavor of the jam?
You can add spices like cinnamon or cloves, or even a splash of vanilla extract.

Serving suggestions

Strawberry jam is perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or ice cream. You can also use the syrup to make refreshing drinks or delicious cocktails. Imagine a summer cocktail with strawberry syrup, sparkling water, and a few slices of lime – a true treat!

Possible variations

If you want to bring a touch of originality, you can combine strawberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries. This combination will add depth of flavor and make the jam even more interesting.

Calories and nutritional benefits

A serving of strawberry jam (1 tablespoon) contains approximately 50 calories, being a good source of vitamin C and fiber. This can contribute to a balanced diet, providing a natural alternative to processed sweets.

Therefore, both strawberry jam and syrup are not only delicious but also packed with health benefits. Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to put on your apron and start making these treats! Cooking can be a true therapy and a wonderful way to spend time with loved ones. Enjoy every moment and savor your successes!