Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry Jam - a simple and delicious recipe to bring summer into every jar

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 45 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: approximately 4 jars of 400 g

The history of strawberry jam is one filled with flavor and tradition. This sweet delight has been made for generations, serving as a way for people to preserve fresh fruits to enjoy them even in winter. Strawberries, with their intense flavor and vibrant color, are not only a delicious ingredient but also a rich source of antioxidants and vitamins, making them a wonderful ingredient for a healthy jam.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of fresh strawberries
- 800 g of sugar
- Juice of one lemon (approximately 50 ml)

Step 1: Preparing the strawberries
Start by cleaning the strawberries. Rinse them carefully under cold running water and remove the stems. It is important to choose ripe and firm strawberries, as they will bring a more intense flavor to your jam.

Step 2: Marinating the strawberries
Place the cleaned strawberries in a large pot, add the sugar, and mix well. Cover the pot with a lid or plastic wrap and let the strawberries sit in the refrigerator for 24 hours. This step will help extract the natural juice from the strawberries, providing a delicious base for your jam.

Step 3: Boiling
After the strawberries have marinated, remove the pot from the refrigerator and place it over medium heat. Stir constantly to ensure the sugar melts evenly. Once the sugar has completely dissolved, increase the heat to high.

Step 4: Adding lemon juice
When the mixture begins to boil, add the lemon juice. This will not only enhance the flavor of the jam but also help preserve it due to its acidity. Continue to stir and boil the mixture for about 30-40 minutes until it thickens.

Step 5: Testing the consistency
To check if the jam is ready, you can use a wooden spoon. Take a spoonful of the mixture and let it drip; if the drop holds together and does not spread, the jam is ready. If it is still too liquid, let it cook for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.

Step 6: Cooling and preserving
Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat and cover it with a well-wrung damp towel. This will help preserve the flavor and prevent mold from forming. Allow the jam to cool completely before transferring it to sterilized jars.

Step 7: Bottling
Use a spoon or ladle to pour the jam into jars. Make sure they are completely dry and clean. You can use glass jars with lids to keep the jam fresh. Seal the jars tightly and store them in a cool, dark place.

Serving suggestions:
Strawberry jam is perfect for spreading on toasted bread, paired with creamy cheese, or can be used as a filling for cakes and tarts. It also pairs wonderfully with yogurt or as a topping for ice cream.

Possible variations:
For a more complex flavor, you can add a few mint leaves or some grated ginger during boiling. You can also experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create a mixed jam.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
A serving (approximately 20 g) of strawberry jam contains about 50 calories. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, dietary fiber, and antioxidants, which contribute to a healthy immune system and optimal digestion.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
As mentioned, the spoon test is a simple way to check the consistency. If the drop holds together, the jam is ready.

2. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will add a caramel note and enhance the flavor of the jam, providing a different taste experience.

3. How long can strawberry jam be stored?
If stored properly, the jam can last up to 1 year. Once opened, it is recommended to consume it within 2-3 months.

4. What other recipes can I try with strawberries?
Besides jam, strawberries are excellent in cakes, salads, smoothies, or as a topping for pancakes.

Enjoy this strawberry jam recipe and let the flavors transport you to a summer full of sunshine! Whether you savor it alone or gift it to loved ones, your jam will surely be a hit.