Strawberry jam

Homemade Strawberry Jam - A Sweet and Fragrant Delight

If you are looking for a simple and delicious recipe to turn fresh strawberries into aromatic jam, you have come to the right place! Strawberry jam is a perfect choice to start your morning with a tasty breakfast or to add a touch of sweetness to your favorite desserts. In this detailed guide, I will share the necessary steps to achieve perfect strawberry jam, as well as useful tips for storing and enjoying it.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: approximately 8 jars of 250 g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg fresh strawberries
- 1.5 kg sugar
- juice of 1 lemon

The Story of Strawberry Jam

Strawberry jam has a long history, made by generations as a way to preserve seasonal fruits. This simple and accessible recipe has become a tradition in many households, bringing joy and nostalgia. When you make strawberry jam at home, you not only enjoy a delicious taste but also the satisfaction of creating something with your own hands. Whether you serve it on a slice of toast, alongside cheese, or as a filling for pastries, your jam will surely become a family favorite.

Step by Step to Perfect Strawberry Jam

1. Preparing the Strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the stems and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on your preferences. You can use fresh strawberries, but frozen ones can also work in this recipe.

2. Making the Puree: Place the strawberries in a food processor and blend until you achieve a smooth puree. If you prefer a jam with larger fruit pieces, you can blend only partially.

3. Cooking the Jam: Transfer the strawberry puree to a double-bottomed pot or a hot plate to prevent burning. Add the sugar and lemon juice. Mix well to combine the ingredients.

4. Boiling: Place the pot on low heat and let it simmer, stirring occasionally. It is important to remember to skim the jam to remove any impurities that may form on the surface. Cooking will take about an hour, and the jam is ready when it thickens. You can check the consistency by placing a spoonful of jam on a cold saucer; if it doesn’t run, it’s perfect!

5. Sterilizing the Jars: While the jam is boiling, it is essential to prepare your jars. Wash them well and sterilize them either by boiling or in the oven. It is important that they are warm when you pour in the hot jam to avoid cracking.

6. Bottling: When the jam is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars. Make sure to leave about 1 cm of space at the top of each jar. Turn the jars upside down to create a vacuum and let them cool completely.

7. Storing: After they have cooled, store the jars in a cool, dark place. Strawberry jam is perfect for consumption within the next 12 months!

Useful Tips:
- Use very ripe strawberries for a sweeter and more aromatic jam.
- You can experiment with adding other flavors, such as vanilla or basil, to give your jam a personal touch.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.

Nutritional Benefits:
Strawberry jam provides an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Although it contains sugar, it is a delicious way to incorporate fruits into your diet, especially during winter when fresh strawberries are not available.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! This recipe can easily adapt to other fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches.
- How can I extend the shelf life? Make sure the jars are well sterilized and that the jam is poured hot. Keep them in a dark and cool place.

Serving and Combinations:
Strawberry jam is excellent on a slice of toast, but it also pairs perfectly with camembert cheese or as a filling for pancakes and pastries. You can serve it alongside a fragrant tea or freshly brewed coffee for a complete culinary experience.

Possible Variations:
- Mint Strawberry Jam: Add a few fresh mint leaves during boiling for a refreshing taste.
- Spicy Strawberry Jam: You can add a bit of chili pepper to create a jam with a touch of heat.

Strawberry jam is a classic recipe that combines tradition with the fresh flavors of summer. With each jar you prepare, you bring a bit of sunshine into your days. So, don’t hesitate, gather the ingredients, and let’s enjoy the sweetness of strawberries at home!