Strawberry jam in the Romanian pot

Strawberry Jam Recipe in the Roman Pot

Who doesn't fondly remember the moments spent in grandma's kitchen, where the sweet aroma of strawberry jam envelops you and brings a smile to your face? This strawberry jam recipe in the Roman pot is a true treasure, a delight that can turn any meal into something special. Whether you want to use it on a slice of toasted bread, as a filling for cakes, or simply enjoy it straight from the jar, this jam will bring joy in every spoonful. Let's see how it's made!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 3 hours
Total time: 3 hours and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 400 ml

Ingredients:

- 4 kg fresh strawberries
- 2 kg sugar
- 3 large lemons

The history of strawberry jam is wonderful! Over the years, this preparation has been an excellent way to preserve fresh fruits for winter, offering an explosion of flavor and sweetness on cold days. Using a simple layering technique in the Roman pot, you will achieve an authentic strawberry jam with an unmistakable taste.

Making the jam:

1. Preparing the strawberries:
Start by removing the leaves from the strawberries. Make sure they are ripe and fragrant, as this will affect the final taste of the jam. Rinse them gently under cold running water to remove impurities. Let them drain well.

2. The jam layer:
In a Roman pot, place a first layer of strawberries, followed by a layer of sugar. Continue alternating layers, making sure to end with a layer of sugar. This technique will help extract the juice from the strawberries, slowly transforming them into jam.

3. Baking:
Preheat the oven to a medium temperature (about 150°C). Place the Roman pot in the oven and let it bake for about 3 hours. Occasionally, open the oven and gently stir the jam with a wooden spoon. This will help to even out the sugar and prevent the jam from burning.

4. Adding the lemons:
After 3 hours, squeeze the juice from the 3 large lemons and add it to the jam. The lemon not only provides a pleasant contrast of acidity but also helps preserve the jam due to its citric acid content.

5. Preparing the jars:
While the jam cools slightly, prepare the jars. Wash them well with warm soapy water and rinse them. Then, place them in the oven for a few minutes at a temperature of 100°C to sterilize them. This step is essential to prevent bacterial growth.

6. Packing the jam:
Once the jam is ready, pour it hot into the sterilized jars. Make sure the jars are filled to the neck but leave a little room for expansion. Put the lid on and, to ensure a good seal, wrap the jars in blankets, allowing them to cool gradually. This method will help the jam settle well and retain its flavor.

Practical tips:

- Always check if the strawberries are fresh. Choose the ripest and most fragrant ones, as they will make a difference.
- You can also add other spices, such as a pinch of cinnamon or a few mint leaves, to give your jam an interesting twist.
- If you want a less sweet jam, adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. You can also experiment with other types of sugar, such as brown sugar, for a more caramelized taste.

Possible variations:

- Try combining strawberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, for a delicious mixture.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract for a more aromatic jam.

Ideal combinations:

Strawberry jam pairs perfectly with a slice of toasted bread, but you can also use it as a filling for muffins or cakes. It is also delicious alongside yogurt or fresh cheese, bringing a perfect contrast between sweet and savory.

Nutritional benefits:

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy choice for a snack. Although the jam contains sugar, when consumed in moderation, it can be part of a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How can I tell if the jam is well made?
Check the consistency and aroma of the jam. It should be thick and have an intense strawberry flavor. If it is too runny, you can leave it in the oven a bit longer to thicken.

2. Can I use other fruits for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different berries or even combinations of fruits for a unique jam.

3. How long can I keep the jam?
If properly sterilized and sealed, the jam can be stored in the pantry for a year or even longer. After opening, keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.

End your day with a portion of homemade strawberry jam, a delight that will bring warm memories and moments of joy every morning. Enjoy!