Strawberry jam

Strawberry Jam: The Sweet Delight of Summer

When it comes to strawberry jam, few things can rival its sweet, intense, and natural aroma. This recipe, inspired by the techniques of a passionate cook, will guide you step by step to create a delicious jam with a perfect consistency that will delight your senses. It's ideal for enjoying on a slice of toasted bread, as a filling for pastries, or simply with a spoon straight from the jar. I promise that once you try this strawberry jam, you won't want anything else.

Preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 20-25 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 3 jars (1.360 kg + 1.720 kg)

Ingredients

- 2.2 kg strawberries (choose beautiful, ripe, and healthy strawberries)
- 900 g sugar (you can adjust the amount to taste)
- Optional: a splash of lemon juice for a more balanced flavor

Preparing the Strawberry Jam

1. Preparing the Strawberries
Start by cleaning the strawberries. Place them in a large colander and rinse them under cold running water. This step not only removes impurities but also helps retain the freshness of the fruit. After washing, remove the stems.

2. Boiling the Strawberries
In a double-bottomed pot (ideal for jams as it distributes heat evenly), add the cleaned strawberries and bring them to a boil over medium heat. Stir gently until the strawberries release their juice.

3. Reducing the Liquid
Once the strawberries start to boil, reduce the heat and let them simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Continue cooking until the liquid has reduced by half. This step will intensify the jam's flavor.

4. Adding the Sugar
After you have a concentrated strawberry base, add the sugar. You can start with 800 g, and after it has dissolved, taste the mixture. If you desire a sweeter jam, gradually add another 100 g. This is the perfect time to adjust the sweetness to your liking.

5. Final Boil
Continue to boil the mixture, skimming off the foam that forms with a wooden spoon (the same one you used to stir). Be sure to stir constantly to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Boil the jam for 20-25 minutes, or until it reaches the desired consistency. A simple way to check is to place a teaspoon of jam on a cold saucer; if it thickens as it cools, it's ready.

6. Bottling
When the jam has reached the perfect consistency, turn off the heat and pour it hot into clean, sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are sealed well, and if you intend to store them for a long time, you can add a natural preservative.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but make sure to completely thaw them before using. Fresh strawberries, however, provide a more intense flavor.

- How can I enhance the flavor of the jam?
You can add a splash of lemon juice or even a bit of vanilla extract for a more complex taste.

- What do I do if the jam doesn't thicken?
If you notice that the jam is too runny, you can continue to boil it until it reaches the desired consistency. Sometimes, a splash of pectin can help.

Useful Tips

- Choose quality strawberries: Investing in fresh, ripe strawberries will make a difference in the flavor of your jam.
- The saucer test: This is a simple trick to check the jam's consistency. A teaspoon of jam on a cold saucer will show you exactly how it will behave after cooling.
- Storage: If you don't use a preservative, keep the jam in the refrigerator, where it can last for several months.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry jam is perfect on a slice of warm toasted bread, but it can also be paired with cottage cheese for a delicious and healthy breakfast. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for filling pastries or tarts.

Nutritional Benefits

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making the jam not just a delicacy but also a healthier option compared to other types of preserves. Moreover, the natural sweetness of strawberries can satisfy your sweet cravings without the need for artificial additives.

This strawberry jam recipe is more than just a simple recipe; it is a cooking experience that will bring you joy in every jar. So put on your apron, ensure you have all the ingredients at hand, and get ready to enjoy a delicious homemade jam that will surely delight any breakfast or dessert. Enjoy!