Strawberry jam recipe with vanilla

Strawberry Vanilla Jam: a delicacy that brings summer into jars

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 10 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: about 4 jars of 400 g

Strawberry vanilla jam is a true symbol of summer, a simple and quick recipe that delights us with its enticing flavors. This preparation is not only delicious but also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding us of warm days spent in the garden, enjoying fresh fruits. In this recipe, vanilla adds a sophisticated note, transforming the jam into a true delight.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg freshly picked strawberries
- 1 kg white sugar
- 2 packets of Bourbon vanilla sugar with vanilla pod
- 1 packet of Gelfix Classic Dr. Oetker

Preparing the strawberries:
1. Start by selecting the most beautiful strawberries, preferably freshly picked. They should be firm, juicy, and blemish-free.
2. Wash the strawberries under a stream of cold water to remove impurities and any insects. It is important to rinse them well so that the jam is clean and healthy.
3. After washing, cut them in half. This step not only helps release the natural juice of the strawberries but also achieves a more pleasant texture in the jam.

Making the jam:
1. In a large pot, add the cut strawberries and mix them with the contents of the Gelfix packet mixed with 2 tablespoons of sugar. The Gelfix will help thicken the jam, giving it the perfect consistency.
2. Place the pot over medium heat and start stirring gently with a wooden spoon. This is a simple yet essential technique. Constant stirring will prevent the strawberries from sticking to the bottom of the pot and ensure even boiling.
3. When the mixture begins to boil, add the remaining sugar and the two packets of vanilla sugar. The aroma of vanilla will combine wonderfully with that of the strawberries, adding extra flavor.
4. Continue boiling the mixture for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This is the ideal time to check the consistency of the jam. If you want a less dense jam, you can reduce the boiling time.

Bottling and preserving:
1. Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, turn off the heat and prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and dry, preferably sterilized by boiling or in the oven.
2. Pour the hot jam into the jars, filling them almost to the top. It is important to seal the jars immediately to prevent contamination.
3. After sealing the jars, turn them upside down for about 5 minutes. This step helps create a vacuum seal that will keep the jam fresh for longer.
4. After 5 minutes, turn the jars back to their normal position and let them cool completely at room temperature. Then, store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical tips:
- Choose ripe but firm strawberries to achieve a pleasant texture in the jam.
- If you want to enhance the flavor, you can also add a little lemon juice during preparation.
- Strawberry vanilla jam keeps well for 12 months, but it is so delicious that it might not last that long!

Nutritional values:
A 100 g serving of strawberry jam contains approximately:
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 65 g
- Sugar: 60 g
- Fiber: 1 g

Strawberry vanilla jam is perfect for serving at breakfast on a slice of toasted bread or as a filling for cakes and cookies. You can also combine this jam with natural yogurt, adding a touch of freshness, or use it to decorate a vanilla cake.

If you are looking for variations, you can experiment by adding other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, or even a splash of rum for a unique flavor.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.

2. What can I do if the jam hasn't thickened?
You can add another packet of Gelfix to the warm mixture and boil again for a few minutes.

3. How can I check if the jam is ready?
A simple method is to put a spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If it doesn't run, it's ready.

This strawberry vanilla jam recipe is not only a great way to preserve fruits but also an opportunity to bring a taste of summer into every day. Enjoy each jar as a delicious memory of the strawberry season!