Strawberry jam with vanilla paste is a delicacy that combines the natural sweetness of the fruit with the subtle aroma of vanilla, turning any meal into a memorable experience. This simple yet flavorful recipe will remind you of summer days when strawberries are at their peak, and their enticing fragrance fills the air. Free from preservatives, this jam will not only provide an explosion of flavor but also the satisfaction of creating something delicious from natural ingredients.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Yield: approximately 10 jars of 400g
Necessary ingredients
- 3 kg fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
- 2.5 kg granulated sugar
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 1 vanilla pod
- A large, clean, heavy-bottomed pot
- A very clean wooden spoon (for stirring)
- A damp kitchen towel, well wrung out (for cooling)
A brief story about strawberry jam
It is said that jams have been made for thousands of years, initially as a way to preserve fruits for the winter. Strawberry jam, in particular, has become popular due to its delicious taste and versatility, being used not only on bread but also as a filling for cakes or as a topping for desserts. The addition of vanilla provides an extra touch of elegance and complexity, transforming a simple recipe into a true feast for the senses.
Step by step: Making the jam
1. Preparing the strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the stems and cut them in half if they are very large. This step is essential to ensure that the jam will have a uniform and pleasant texture.
2. Layering with sugar: In a large pot, layer the strawberries alternating with sugar. For example, a layer of strawberries followed by a layer of sugar. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours. This time allows the sugar to draw out the natural juice from the strawberries, which will help form the syrup.
3. Preparing the vanilla: Split the vanilla pod lengthwise and use a knife to scrape out the seeds. Add the seeds to the strawberries along with the whole pod. The aroma of vanilla will provide a sophisticated flavor and make your jam special.
4. Cooking the jam: Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to start boiling. Once the jam begins to boil, add the lemon juice. The lemon will not only enhance the flavor but also help preserve the jam. Stir gently with the wooden spoon, being careful not to crush the fruit.
5. Skimming: After about 30 minutes of boiling, use a clean, dry skimmer to remove the foam from the surface of the jam. This step is important as the foam can affect the final texture of the jam.
6. Final boiling: After removing the foam, reduce the heat to low. Let the jam simmer for another 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid crushing the fruit. If the heat is too high and the jam starts to stick, you can place a board under the pot to distribute the heat evenly.
7. Testing the consistency: After an hour, take a plate and place a teaspoon of the hot jam on it. Let it cool slightly, then tilt the plate. If the jam flows slowly, it is ready. If it is too runny, let it cook for a few more minutes.
8. Cooling: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, cover the pot with a damp towel to allow the heat to dissipate gradually. This step helps maintain the intense aroma and color of the jam.
9. Jarring: When the jam has completely cooled, prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and dry. Fill each jar with the hot jam, leaving a little space at the top, then seal tightly with clean lids. You can label them with the preparation date to keep track of their freshness.
Useful tips
- Using strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries with a sweet and fragrant taste. Frozen strawberries can be used, but the jam will have a different texture.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor, but be sure to adjust the quantity since brown sugar is moister.
- Variations: You can add other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a delicious mixed jam. Additionally, you can add a splash of rum or vanilla liqueur for a deeper flavor.
- Serving: Strawberry vanilla jam pairs perfectly with Greek yogurt, on toast, or as a filling for pancakes. Try using it in cakes or tarts for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutritional benefits
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while vanilla has anti-inflammatory properties. This combination will not only delight your taste buds but also provide health benefits.
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does the jam last?
If properly sterilized and stored in a cool, dark place, strawberry jam can last for several months.
2. Can I use something else instead of vanilla?
Of course! You can use vanilla extract or other spices, such as cinnamon, for a different note.
3. If I don't have lemon, what can I use?
Apple cider vinegar can be an alternative, but the taste will change slightly.
4. Is it necessary to sterilize the jars?
Yes, to prevent bacterial growth, the jars must be sterilized before filling.
5. What if the jam is too runny?
You can continue to boil it for a few more minutes, but be careful not to leave it on the heat for too long.
This strawberry jam with vanilla paste is not just a recipe; it's a true celebration of flavor. So, don't hesitate to try making it, enjoy its aroma, and share it with your loved ones!
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 90 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 50 minutes
Yield: approximately 10 jars of 400g
Necessary ingredients
- 3 kg fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
- 2.5 kg granulated sugar
- 1 lemon (juice)
- 1 vanilla pod
- A large, clean, heavy-bottomed pot
- A very clean wooden spoon (for stirring)
- A damp kitchen towel, well wrung out (for cooling)
A brief story about strawberry jam
It is said that jams have been made for thousands of years, initially as a way to preserve fruits for the winter. Strawberry jam, in particular, has become popular due to its delicious taste and versatility, being used not only on bread but also as a filling for cakes or as a topping for desserts. The addition of vanilla provides an extra touch of elegance and complexity, transforming a simple recipe into a true feast for the senses.
Step by step: Making the jam
1. Preparing the strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the stems and cut them in half if they are very large. This step is essential to ensure that the jam will have a uniform and pleasant texture.
2. Layering with sugar: In a large pot, layer the strawberries alternating with sugar. For example, a layer of strawberries followed by a layer of sugar. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture sit at room temperature for 2-3 hours. This time allows the sugar to draw out the natural juice from the strawberries, which will help form the syrup.
3. Preparing the vanilla: Split the vanilla pod lengthwise and use a knife to scrape out the seeds. Add the seeds to the strawberries along with the whole pod. The aroma of vanilla will provide a sophisticated flavor and make your jam special.
4. Cooking the jam: Place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to start boiling. Once the jam begins to boil, add the lemon juice. The lemon will not only enhance the flavor but also help preserve the jam. Stir gently with the wooden spoon, being careful not to crush the fruit.
5. Skimming: After about 30 minutes of boiling, use a clean, dry skimmer to remove the foam from the surface of the jam. This step is important as the foam can affect the final texture of the jam.
6. Final boiling: After removing the foam, reduce the heat to low. Let the jam simmer for another 60 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid crushing the fruit. If the heat is too high and the jam starts to stick, you can place a board under the pot to distribute the heat evenly.
7. Testing the consistency: After an hour, take a plate and place a teaspoon of the hot jam on it. Let it cool slightly, then tilt the plate. If the jam flows slowly, it is ready. If it is too runny, let it cook for a few more minutes.
8. Cooling: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, cover the pot with a damp towel to allow the heat to dissipate gradually. This step helps maintain the intense aroma and color of the jam.
9. Jarring: When the jam has completely cooled, prepare the jars. Make sure they are clean and dry. Fill each jar with the hot jam, leaving a little space at the top, then seal tightly with clean lids. You can label them with the preparation date to keep track of their freshness.
Useful tips
- Using strawberries: Choose ripe strawberries with a sweet and fragrant taste. Frozen strawberries can be used, but the jam will have a different texture.
- Sugar: You can experiment with brown sugar for a more caramelized flavor, but be sure to adjust the quantity since brown sugar is moister.
- Variations: You can add other fruits, such as raspberries or blueberries, to create a delicious mixed jam. Additionally, you can add a splash of rum or vanilla liqueur for a deeper flavor.
- Serving: Strawberry vanilla jam pairs perfectly with Greek yogurt, on toast, or as a filling for pancakes. Try using it in cakes or tarts for an extra burst of flavor.
Nutritional benefits
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while vanilla has anti-inflammatory properties. This combination will not only delight your taste buds but also provide health benefits.
Frequently asked questions
1. How long does the jam last?
If properly sterilized and stored in a cool, dark place, strawberry jam can last for several months.
2. Can I use something else instead of vanilla?
Of course! You can use vanilla extract or other spices, such as cinnamon, for a different note.
3. If I don't have lemon, what can I use?
Apple cider vinegar can be an alternative, but the taste will change slightly.
4. Is it necessary to sterilize the jars?
Yes, to prevent bacterial growth, the jars must be sterilized before filling.
5. What if the jam is too runny?
You can continue to boil it for a few more minutes, but be careful not to leave it on the heat for too long.
This strawberry jam with vanilla paste is not just a recipe; it's a true celebration of flavor. So, don't hesitate to try making it, enjoy its aroma, and share it with your loved ones!
Ingredients
Strawberry jam recipe 3 kg washed and cleaned strawberries 2.5 kg granulated sugar 1 lemon, juice one vanilla pod a large, clean pot with a thick bottom patience :)