Strawberry jam

Strawberry Jam: A Sweet Delicacy for Winter

Making strawberry jam is a charming activity that connects you with nature and the authentic flavors of summer. This jam will not only brighten your winter evenings but will also bring a touch of summer nostalgia to every jar. In this recipe, I will guide you step by step, providing useful tips and interesting information about the ingredients used. Whether you enjoy it on a slice of toasted bread or use it as a filling for various desserts, this strawberry jam will surely become a staple recipe in your kitchen.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 3 small jars (250 ml each)

Ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh strawberries
- 1 kg sugar
- Juice of half a lemon

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water, making sure to remove any impurities. After washing, remove the stems and cut them into smaller pieces. Place them in a large bowl, preferably glass or ceramic, and sprinkle the sugar over them. Gently mix to ensure the sugar evenly coats the strawberries. Now, cover the bowl with plastic wrap and leave it in the refrigerator overnight. This step allows the strawberries to release their juice, making the jam richer and more flavorful.

Step 2: Cooking the jam
The next day, take the bowl out of the refrigerator. Put the strawberries and the juice they released into a large pot. Bring to a boil over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. It is important to skim off the foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear and smooth jam. Boil the mixture for about 30-40 minutes, or until the jam reduces by half.

Step 3: Sterilizing the jars
While the jam is boiling, it is essential to prepare the jars. Wash 3 small jars thoroughly with dish soap, rinse them with clean water, and then sterilize them. A simple method is to submerge them in a pot of boiling water for a few minutes. Don't forget to do the same with the lids! After sterilization, leave the jars upside down on a clean towel to drain well.

Step 4: Adding the lemon
Once the jam has boiled and reduced sufficiently, add the juice of half a lemon. The lemon will not only enhance the flavor of the jam but also help preserve it. Mix well, then turn off the heat.

Step 5: Consistency test
To check if the jam is ready, place a spoonful of jam on a cold plate. If the jam thickens and does not run, then it is perfect. If not, let it boil for a few more minutes.

Step 6: Jarring the jam
Use a tray or stainless steel pan to avoid breaking the jars due to the heat. Fill each jar with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Put the lid on immediately and cover the jars with a thick towel to help create a vacuum as they cool. This trick will ensure the jam stays fresh and tasty for a long time.

Step 7: Storing the jam
After the jars have completely cooled, you can store them in your pantry. Strawberry jam can be kept for up to two years, but it is so delicious that it will disappear quickly!

Practical tips:
1. Choose ripe and fragrant strawberries for a jam with an intense flavor.
2. If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the sugar by 200-300 g.
3. You can add an exotic touch by adding a few mint leaves or a pinch of cinnamon during cooking.
4. If you don't have a large pot, you can make the jam in smaller batches, but be sure to respect the proportions of the ingredients.

Delicious combinations:
Strawberry jam goes wonderfully with toasted bread, pancakes, muffins, or as a filling for cakes. I recommend serving it with a cup of hot tea or a creamy cappuccino for a perfect morning.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them a healthy ingredient. A strawberry jam, although sweetened, retains some of the nutritional benefits of fresh fruit.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use frozen strawberries? Yes, but make sure they are completely thawed and drained before using.
- How can I check if the jam is well preserved? If the jars make a clicking sound when you open them, it means the vacuum has formed correctly.

Now it's time to start cooking! I hope this strawberry jam recipe inspires you to bring a little bit of summer into your pantry and delight your family and friends with a special delicacy. Remember, each jar of strawberry jam is a sweet story waiting to be savored!