Strawberry jam with bananas

Strawberry Banana Jam – An Irresistible Delight

If you're looking for a jam recipe that will delight your taste buds and bring a smile to the faces of your loved ones, you've come to the right place. Strawberry banana jam is a delicious combination that not only blends the flavors of the fruits but also brings a touch of nostalgia, reminding you of sunny summer days. This recipe is simple and quick, making it ideal for moments when you want to impress your family or friends.

Preparation time:
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 1 hour
- Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
- Servings: enough for approximately 6 jars of 250 g

Ingredients:
- 2 kg of fresh strawberries
- 4 ripe bananas
- 1 cup of sugar (250 g)
- Juice of one large lemon

Necessary utensils:
- A large cooking pot
- Wooden spoon
- Sterilized glass jars
- Strainer or skimmer
- Knife and cutting board

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries well. To maintain their vibrant color, place them in a bowl of cold water with the juice of half a lemon. Let them sit in this solution for a maximum of 5-10 minutes, then rinse them again under cold running water. Carefully remove the stems and ensure the fruits are clean and ready to use.

Step 2: Preparing the bananas
Peel the bananas and slice them thinly. If you have overly ripe bananas, don't worry, as they will add natural sweetness to your jam. The bananas pair perfectly with strawberries, bringing a creamy texture and a sweet taste.

Step 3: Mixing the fruits
In a large pot, add the whole strawberries and banana slices. Sprinkle the sugar evenly over the fruits, then add the remaining lemon juice. Gently mix to combine the ingredients, being careful not to crush the strawberries. Cover the pot with a lid and let the mixture sit in the fridge for a few hours, preferably overnight. This step will help the fruits release their juice and enhance the flavors.

Step 4: Cooking the jam
Once the mixture has chilled, place the pot on high heat. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium. Use a skimmer to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This foam consists of air and impurities, and it is important to remove it to achieve a clear and high-quality jam.

Step 5: Testing the consistency
Boil the jam for about an hour, stirring gently from time to time. Every 15 minutes, you can test the consistency of the jam. Place a spoonful of jam on a cold plate and tilt it. If the jam holds its shape and does not run, it is ready. If not, continue cooking, testing again after a few minutes.

Step 6: Jarring
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, it's time to pour it into jars. Make sure the jars are hot and clean to prevent bacterial growth. Fill each jar with hot jam, leaving a small space at the top, then place the lids on. You can place the jars in the oven at 100°C for a few minutes to create a protective crust on the surface of the jam.

Step 7: Preserving
After placing the lids, set the jars upside down on a towel or blanket. This will help create a vacuum, keeping the jam fresh and delicious for an extended period.

Helpful tips:
- Choosing fruits: Make sure the strawberries are ripe and flavorful. Quality fruits will make a difference in the final taste of the jam.
- Sugar: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar, but be aware that sugar also helps with preservation.
- Spiced version: You can add a dash of vanilla or cinnamon to give your jam an even more special flavor.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy diet. Bananas provide potassium and B vitamins, making this jam not only delicious but also nutritious.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long does the jam last? Under proper conditions, the jam can be stored for up to a year. Once opened, consume it within 3 months.
- Can I use other fruits? Absolutely! You can experiment with other fruits, such as peaches or mangoes, to create new and delicious combinations.

Serving suggestions:
This strawberry banana jam is perfect for spreading on a slice of toast, on pancakes, or even as a filling for pastries. You can also combine it with your favorite yogurt for a healthy and delicious breakfast.

Think of this jam as an opportunity to bring a touch of your summer into every morning. Your effort will surely be worth it, and your loved ones will definitely appreciate this treat. Enjoy!