Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry Jam - The Magical Recipe of Childhood

How much can a jar of strawberry jam stir our memories! Today, I will share my mother's recipe for strawberry jam, a simple and natural recipe that takes us back to warm summer days. No preservatives, no additives, just pure joy and the aroma of fresh fruit. This jam not only enhances any breakfast but also evokes childhood nostalgia, when every spoonful was a celebration in itself.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 12 hours (in the fridge)
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 12 hours 35 minutes
Number of servings: 700 g of jam (2 jars of 300 g and 400 g)

Ingredients:
- 1.5 kg fresh strawberries
- 500 g sugar

Preparing the strawberry jam

Step 1: Preparing the strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water. Make sure they are clean, as these delicious fruits will be the stars of your recipe. Use a straw or a small knife to remove the stems and clean the strawberries. This step may seem simple, but it's essential for achieving a fine and flavorful jam.

Step 2: Cutting and macerating
Cut the strawberries into smaller pieces so they release their juice faster. Place them in a large pot and cover them with sugar. Let them sit in the fridge overnight. This step is crucial, as the strawberries will release a lot of juice, turning the sugar into a delicious syrup that will embrace each piece of fruit.

Step 3: Boiling
The next day, place the pot on low heat. It's important to use gentle heat to prevent the jam from burning. Boil the mixture for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. Along the way, enjoy the enticing aroma that will spread throughout the kitchen!

Step 4: Consistency test
To check if the jam is ready, take a small plate and put a drop of the syrup obtained. If the syrup does not run and thickens slightly, it's a sign that your jam is perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Packaging
Let the jam cool slightly, then carefully pour it into sterilized jars. Label each jar with the preparation date and, if desired, with a personal note about how you made this recipe. I use labels from Dr. Oetker, but you can also play around with your personal style!

Practical tips:
- Use ripe and fragrant strawberries, as the taste of the jam will entirely depend on the quality of the fruit.
- If you want an even more flavorful jam, you can add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a few mint leaves during boiling.
- You can adapt the recipe using other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create delicious combinations.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, making them excellent for skin health and the immune system. This jam can be enjoyed in moderation, having a higher sugar content but also offering an explosion of vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use brown sugar instead of white sugar?
Yes, brown sugar will provide a distinct flavor, but the jam will have a slightly darker color.

2. How can I keep the jam longer?
Make sure the jars are properly sterilized and that the jam is stored in a cool, dark place.

3. What can I serve strawberry jam with?
Strawberry jam is perfect on a slice of toast, in yogurt, or as a topping for pancakes or waffles. You can also add it to desserts, such as cheesecakes or tarts.

A personal note:
Strawberry jam has a special story in my family. I remember how, in the summer, my mother and my aunts would gather in the kitchen, and the aroma of fresh strawberries intertwined with our laughter and stories. It is more than just a recipe; it is a tradition passed down from generation to generation.

In conclusion, making this strawberry jam is a pleasant and comforting experience that will fill your heart with joy and your home with delicious aromas. So, don't hesitate to try this simple recipe and enjoy the pure taste of summer in every jar! Enjoy your meal!