Strawberry jam

Strawberry Jam Recipe: A Sweet and Flavored Indulgence

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: about 6 jars of 400g

Who doesn't love the sweet and fresh flavor of strawberries? Strawberry jam is a delicious treat that reminds us of sunny summer days, even in the coldest months. This simple and delicious recipe is perfect for turning fresh strawberries into a golden composition that can be enjoyed on toast or as a filling for cakes.

A bit of history
Strawberry jam has a rich tradition, having been made for generations as a method of preserving the fruit. This technique not only helps to preserve the taste and flavor, but also allows us to enjoy the fruit out of its natural season. Whether you use it as a topping for desserts or as an ingredient in various dishes, strawberry jam will always bring a smile to your face.

Ingredients
- 2 kg country strawberries (fresh and flavored)
- 1 kg sugar
- 1 lemon (juice and zest)
- 1 vanilla pod (optional but recommended for extra flavor)

Step by step: making strawberry jam

1. Preparing the strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under a cold running cold water. Make sure to remove all impurities. Once washed, remove the stems and leave them whole to preserve texture and flavor.

2. Mixing with Sugar and Lemon
Place the strawberries in a large bowl and add the sugar and juice from one lemon. Stir gently so that the sugar is evenly distributed. The lemon not only adds a refreshing flavor but also helps preserve the jam.

3. Cooking the jam
Transfer the strawberry mixture to a large saucepan and place over a low heat. Bring to a slow simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. As the strawberries heat, they will begin to release their juices. Continue cooking until the mixture reduces and becomes more viscous.

4. Adding Vanilla
If you choose to use vanilla, cut the pod lengthwise and scrape the seeds into the strawberry jam. This will add a deep and sophisticated flavor, turning the jam into a real treat.

5. Check consistency
After about 40 minutes of cooking, check the consistency of the jam. You can do a simple test: drop a teaspoon of jam onto a cold plate and tilt the plate. If the jam doesn't spread too much, it's ready! If not, leave it on the heat for a few more minutes.

6. Sterilizing the jars
Meanwhile, prepare the jars. Wash them thoroughly with water and detergent, then rinse them with boiling water to sterilize them. You can also put them in the oven at 100°C for about 15 minutes to ensure they are completely dry and sterile.

7. Filling jam jars
When the jam is ready, pour it hot into the prepared jars. Remember to leave 3-4 cm of headspace at the top to allow for expansion. Put the lid on each jar and squeeze tightly.

8. Creating the preserving crust
Place the jars in the oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes. This step will help to form a crust over the jam, preventing air penetration.

9. Cooling and Storage
After removing the jars from the oven, wrap them in blankets to cool slowly. This process helps create a vacuum that will keep the jam fresh for longer.

Practical Tips and Variations
- If you want a jam with a more intense strawberry flavor, you can add a few drops of strawberry extract or even use a little alcohol (e.g. rum) towards the end of cooking.
- You can experiment with other fruits such as raspberries or blackberries to create a delicious mixed jam.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, reduce the sugar by 10-20%.

Nutritional Benefits
Strawberry jam is full of antioxidants, vitamin C and fiber, and is low in calories (about 50-60 calories per 20g serving). This makes jam a healthier option than many other processed sweets, as long as you eat it in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions
- How long can strawberry jam be kept? If prepared and stored correctly, jam can be kept for 1-2 years.
- Can I use other types of sugar? Yes, you can use coconut sugar or honey, but keep in mind that these can slightly change the texture and final taste of the jam.
- How can I use strawberry jam? It is perfect on toast, pancakes, yogurt or as a filling for cakes and desserts.

Serving
Enjoy the jam on a slice of buttered toast, add it to your favorite yogurt or use it as a filling for delicious cakes. A hot cup of tea will also complement a strawberry jam snack perfectly.

All in all, making strawberry jam is a rewarding activity that brings a hint of summer into every jar. So gather the ingredients, follow the steps patiently and prepare this delicacy that is sure to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones! Bon appétit!