Rhubarb and Strawberry Jam

To prepare a delicious rhubarb and strawberry jam, the first step is to ensure that the ingredients are fresh and of good quality. Start by thoroughly washing the rhubarb stalks, removing any impurities or dirt. Once cleaned, cut them into pieces about 1.5 cm long. Then, in a generous bowl, mix the rhubarb with half of the sugar. This process will help extract the juice from the rhubarb, so set the mixture aside for a while.

Meanwhile, it’s time to deal with the strawberries. Wash them carefully, remove the stems, and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on their size. Place the strawberries in another bowl and add the remaining sugar. It’s important to let the strawberries sit for about two hours, during which they will release their delicious juice. If you’re in a hurry, you can use a potato masher to crush them lightly, thus speeding up the juice extraction process.

After the strawberries and rhubarb have rested and released their juices, combine the two mixtures in a large pan or a deep pot. Place the pan over high heat and stir well, so that the sugar dissolves completely. Once the sugar has melted, reduce the heat and let it simmer on low, stirring occasionally. It’s important to pay attention to the foam that will accumulate on top of the jam; use a spoon to remove it, in order to achieve a clear and smooth jam.

Boil the jam for about 30 minutes, or until you notice that it has thickened considerably. Even if you don’t have a clock handy, you can gauge it by its consistency. Once the jam is ready, carefully pour it into sterilized jars, making sure to leave no air inside. Seal them well and wrap them in towels, then place them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they are stored in optimal conditions. If you prefer a quicker method, you can add salicylate on top to simplify the process.

In the end, enjoy the rhubarb and strawberry jam, savoring it on a slice of toasted bread or alongside yogurt. This combination of flavors is not only delicious but also full of vitamins, perfect for starting your day with a smile!