Strawberry Jam Recipe: A Delightful Summer Preserve
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 ml
Strawberries are the symbol of summer and joy, and making strawberry jam is a tradition that reminds us of moments spent in nature, picking fresh fruits. This strawberry jam recipe is not only simple but also quick, providing you with a delicious way to preserve the flavor of strawberries for winter. Get ready to enjoy a natural sweetness, full of vitamins!
Ingredients:
- 2 kg of fresh country strawberries, ideal for jam
- 1 kg of sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a more intense flavor)
- Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 60 ml)
- 1 vanilla pod (optional, but recommended for an extra touch of flavor)
Ingredient details:
Country strawberries are the best choice for jam due to their natural sweetness and flavor. Make sure to choose ripe strawberries, free from spots or signs of damage. Sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps preserve it. Lemon adds a note of acidity, balancing the sweetness and aiding in thickening the jam. The vanilla pod, with its rich aroma, is a detail that will turn the jam into a true delicacy.
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the strawberries: Wash the strawberries well under cold running water. Carefully remove the stems, as they can affect the texture of the jam. Once you have cleaned the strawberries, mash them using a mixer or blender until you achieve a smooth paste.
2. Cooking the strawberries: Place the strawberry puree in a large pot over low heat. It is important to use a pot with a thick bottom to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
3. Adding sugar and flavors: Once the puree starts to boil and has reduced slightly, add the sugar, lemon juice, and, if desired, the split vanilla pod. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. This is the moment to enjoy the wonderful aroma that begins to spread through the kitchen!
4. Skimming: As the jam boils, it will form foam on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove it. This step will help the jam achieve a smoother texture.
5. Checking the consistency: After about 20-30 minutes of boiling, check if the jam has thickened enough. A simple method is to take a teaspoon of jam and place it on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and does not run, it is ready!
6. Sterilizing the jars: While the jam is cooking, prepare the jars. Wash them well, then place them in the oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes to sterilize.
7. Filling the jars: Once the jam is ready, carefully take the jars out of the oven. Use a ladle to pour the hot jam into the jars, leaving a little space at the top. Immediately cover with sterilized lids.
8. Sealing: Put the jars back in the oven for a few minutes (about 10) to create a skin on the surface, which will help with preservation. Then, take the jars out and wrap them in a blanket to cool slowly, helping to create a vacuum.
9. Storing: Once completely cooled, label the jars with the preparation date and store them in a cool, dark place. Strawberry jam can be enjoyed for up to a year, although it is unlikely to last that long!
Serving suggestions:
Strawberry jam is perfect for enjoying on a slice of toast, alongside butter or cheese. You can also use the jam in various desserts, such as cakes, pancakes, or yogurt, bringing a fresh note and flavor.
Variations:
To customize the jam, you can add other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a delicious combination. Also, if you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar.
Nutritional information:
A serving of 100 g of strawberry jam (approximately one tablespoon) contains about 250 calories and is a good source of vitamin C due to the strawberries.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but it is best to thaw and drain them well before use.
2. How can I tell if the jam has spoiled?
If you notice an odd smell, mold, or a change in color, it is advisable not to consume the jam.
By making this strawberry jam, you not only enjoy a delicacy but also create unforgettable moments in the kitchen. Whether you savor it on a slice of bread or use it to sweeten a dessert, each spoonful is a sweet memory!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 ml
Strawberries are the symbol of summer and joy, and making strawberry jam is a tradition that reminds us of moments spent in nature, picking fresh fruits. This strawberry jam recipe is not only simple but also quick, providing you with a delicious way to preserve the flavor of strawberries for winter. Get ready to enjoy a natural sweetness, full of vitamins!
Ingredients:
- 2 kg of fresh country strawberries, ideal for jam
- 1 kg of sugar (you can also use brown sugar for a more intense flavor)
- Juice of 1 lemon (approximately 60 ml)
- 1 vanilla pod (optional, but recommended for an extra touch of flavor)
Ingredient details:
Country strawberries are the best choice for jam due to their natural sweetness and flavor. Make sure to choose ripe strawberries, free from spots or signs of damage. Sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps preserve it. Lemon adds a note of acidity, balancing the sweetness and aiding in thickening the jam. The vanilla pod, with its rich aroma, is a detail that will turn the jam into a true delicacy.
Step-by-step preparation:
1. Preparing the strawberries: Wash the strawberries well under cold running water. Carefully remove the stems, as they can affect the texture of the jam. Once you have cleaned the strawberries, mash them using a mixer or blender until you achieve a smooth paste.
2. Cooking the strawberries: Place the strawberry puree in a large pot over low heat. It is important to use a pot with a thick bottom to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. Stir frequently to avoid burning.
3. Adding sugar and flavors: Once the puree starts to boil and has reduced slightly, add the sugar, lemon juice, and, if desired, the split vanilla pod. Stir well to dissolve the sugar. This is the moment to enjoy the wonderful aroma that begins to spread through the kitchen!
4. Skimming: As the jam boils, it will form foam on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove it. This step will help the jam achieve a smoother texture.
5. Checking the consistency: After about 20-30 minutes of boiling, check if the jam has thickened enough. A simple method is to take a teaspoon of jam and place it on a cold plate. If it holds its shape and does not run, it is ready!
6. Sterilizing the jars: While the jam is cooking, prepare the jars. Wash them well, then place them in the oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes to sterilize.
7. Filling the jars: Once the jam is ready, carefully take the jars out of the oven. Use a ladle to pour the hot jam into the jars, leaving a little space at the top. Immediately cover with sterilized lids.
8. Sealing: Put the jars back in the oven for a few minutes (about 10) to create a skin on the surface, which will help with preservation. Then, take the jars out and wrap them in a blanket to cool slowly, helping to create a vacuum.
9. Storing: Once completely cooled, label the jars with the preparation date and store them in a cool, dark place. Strawberry jam can be enjoyed for up to a year, although it is unlikely to last that long!
Serving suggestions:
Strawberry jam is perfect for enjoying on a slice of toast, alongside butter or cheese. You can also use the jam in various desserts, such as cakes, pancakes, or yogurt, bringing a fresh note and flavor.
Variations:
To customize the jam, you can add other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, for a delicious combination. Also, if you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar.
Nutritional information:
A serving of 100 g of strawberry jam (approximately one tablespoon) contains about 250 calories and is a good source of vitamin C due to the strawberries.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but it is best to thaw and drain them well before use.
2. How can I tell if the jam has spoiled?
If you notice an odd smell, mold, or a change in color, it is advisable not to consume the jam.
By making this strawberry jam, you not only enjoy a delicacy but also create unforgettable moments in the kitchen. Whether you savor it on a slice of bread or use it to sweeten a dessert, each spoonful is a sweet memory!