Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry jam – a classic and flavorful recipe that brings the aromas of summer and childhood memories. Making this jam is a true art, and today I will guide you step by step, so that each jar is an explosion of taste and color.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 10 jars of 350g

Ingredients:
- 4 kg fresh strawberries: Choose ripe, juicy strawberries with a sweet smell and vibrant color. Frozen strawberries are not recommended, as the texture of the jam will be different.
- 2 kg sugar: You can use white sugar or brown sugar for a more caramelized taste. Sugar helps preserve the jam and gives it the perfect consistency.
- Juice of one lemon: This not only helps with preservation but also balances the sweetness, providing a pleasant contrast.
- 1 lime: This addition will enhance the flavor of the jam and add an exotic note.

A bit of history:
Strawberry jam is an old culinary tradition, prepared by generations. It not only sweetens meals but also reminds us of the times when fruits were preserved to be enjoyed throughout the year. It is a symbol of summer, and each opened jar brings back memories of picnics and sunny days.

Step by step for perfect jam:

1. Cleaning and washing the strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water. Remove the leaves and stems, then cut them in half or quarters, depending on your preference. This step is essential, as dirty strawberries can affect the taste of the jam.

2. Marinating the strawberries:
Place the cleaned strawberries in a large bowl and add half of the sugar. Add the lemon juice and the halved limes. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and let it chill for a few hours (ideally overnight). This process will allow the strawberries to release their natural juice, which will intensify the flavor and help dissolve the sugar.

3. Preparing the syrup:
After the strawberries have chilled, transfer the juice obtained into a large pot and add the remaining sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly until the sugar is completely dissolved. It is important not to let the syrup boil too quickly, as this can lead to caramelization.

4. Boiling the strawberries:
Add the strawberries to the hot syrup and let the mixture simmer. Do not stir constantly; instead, gently move the pot to avoid crushing the strawberries. Boil until the jam begins to set. This process may take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the amount of juice released by the strawberries.

5. Testing the consistency:
Take 2-3 tablespoons of the hot jam and let them cool on a plate. If, after cooling, the jam has a thicker consistency and does not run, it is ready.

6. Bottling:
Prepare sterilized jars. Fill the jars with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the lid tightly and turn the jars upside down to create a vacuum. This step ensures better preservation.

Practical tips:
- Storing the jam: The jam keeps best in a cool, dark place. Once opened, it is recommended to keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.
- Vanilla option: Add a vanilla pod during boiling for an extra flavor. This will perfectly complement the strawberry aroma.
- Spicy jam: If you are looking for a bolder option, add a few slices of chili pepper to the sugar syrup for an interesting contrast.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A 100g serving of strawberry jam contains approximately 250 calories. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, having benefits for the immune system and cardiovascular health. When consumed in moderation, jam can be a delicious and healthy option to sweeten your mornings.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use other fruits? Of course! This recipe can easily be adapted to other fruits, such as raspberries, cherries, or peaches.
- How can I check if the jam is well made? The plate test is the simplest. If the jam does not run, it is ready!
- Can it be frozen? It is not recommended to freeze the jam, as the texture will change considerably. It is best to keep it in jars.

Serving:
Strawberry jam is perfect for serving on toasted bread, alongside butter or fresh cheese. You can also use it as a filling for cakes or pastries, or add it to your favorite yogurt. Imagine a perfect breakfast, with aromatic tea and a slice of strawberry jam toast – pure joy!

I encourage you to try this recipe and share your impressions. Strawberry jam is not just a treat, but also a way to preserve summer in every jar. Bon appétit!