Strawberry Jam Recipe (with 3x1 gelling agent)

Strawberry Jam with 3x1 Gelling Agent: A Flavorful Delight for Every Season

Spring and summer are the ideal seasons to enjoy fresh fruits, and strawberries are among the most beloved. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step in making a delicious strawberry jam with a unique touch of dried mint, which will make it truly special. Using 3x1 gelling agent, you will find that the preparation time is significantly reduced, and the result is a perfect jam with an ideal consistency.

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 4 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 9 jars

Ingredients:

- 3 kg fresh strawberries
- 1 kg sugar
- 2 packets of vanilla
- 2 teaspoons of dried mint
- 3 packets of 3x1 gelling agent

Preparing the jars: An essential step

Before you start making the jam, it is essential to take care of the jars in which you will store it. Here are some useful tips for effective sterilization:

1. Wash the jars thoroughly with dish soap and rinse them well with plenty of water. Ensure that no soap residues remain.
2. Place the jars in a tray and put them in the oven at low heat for 10 minutes. This step will ensure proper sterilization, eliminating bacteria and impurities.
3. Use jars with screw caps, as they provide better sealing.

Making the jam: Step by step

1. Wash and clean the strawberries: Choose fresh, ripe, and aromatic strawberries. Wash them well under a stream of cold water and remove the stems. Larger strawberries can be cut into smaller pieces for even cooking.

2. Mix the ingredients: In a large pot, add the cleaned strawberries. In a separate bowl, mix the sugar with the 3x1 gelling agent. This combination will help achieve a jam with a perfect texture and will reduce the amount of sugar needed.

3. Add the flavors: Sprinkle the sugar and gelling agent mixture over the strawberries. Add the vanilla and crushed dried mint. The mint will provide a refreshing and unique note, perfect for highlighting the strawberry flavor.

4. Cook the jam: Place the pot over medium heat and stir constantly. From the moment it starts boiling, it is important to maintain a suitable heat and continue stirring for 3-4 minutes. This is when the jam will form.

5. Fill the jars: Once the cooking time has elapsed, remove the pot from the heat. Using a ladle, carefully fill the sterilized jars with the hot jam. Screw the lids on immediately.

6. Sealing the jars: Place the jars upside down for a few minutes, then place them in a tray, lid side up. Cover them with a thick blanket to maintain a dry steam, facilitating the sealing process.

7. Storage: After they have completely cooled, you can clean any jam droplets from the sides of the jars, label them, and store them in a cool, dark place. The strawberry mint jam will be ready to be enjoyed at any time!

Nutritional benefits and calories

Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy food that contributes to strengthening the immune system and maintaining digestive health. In terms of calories, a serving of jam (approximately 2 tablespoons) contains about 70-80 calories, depending on the amount of sugar used. By using a gelling agent, you can reduce the sugar content, making the jam healthier.

Variations and serving suggestions

Strawberry mint jam can be used in various ways. Here are some suggestions:

- On toast: Enjoy the jam on a slice of toasted bread with butter for a delicious breakfast.
- For dessert: Use the jam to fill pancakes, cakes, or muffins.
- Ice cream: Add strawberry jam over vanilla ice cream for a refreshing dessert.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use other fruits? Yes, you can experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches, changing the flavors to your preference.
2. How long does the jam last? If properly sealed, the jam can be stored for up to a year in the pantry.
3. What if the jam hasn't thickened? If you notice that the jam does not have the desired consistency, you can add another packet of gelling agent and boil it again.

I hope this strawberry mint jam recipe inspires you to start cooking and enjoy the flavors of summer! Don't forget to share this delicacy with your loved ones, as nothing compares to the joy of savoring homemade fruit jam. Enjoy!