Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry Jam – Delicious and Easy Recipe

Strawberries are undoubtedly one of the most beloved spring fruits, and strawberry jam is a wonderful way to preserve their aroma and taste for the entire winter. This jam recipe is perfect for beginners and will quickly turn into a delightful, colorful, and flavorful activity. Let's discover together how to prepare perfect strawberry jam, step by step!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: Approximately 10 jars (400g each)

Ingredients:
- 4 kg fresh strawberries
- 2 kg sugar
- 8 packets vanilla sugar
- 4 packets gelling agent (or according to the instructions on the package)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water to remove any impurities. Remove the stems and chop them into small cubes. This step will not only help integrate the strawberries better into the jam but will also add a nice appearance.

2. Boiling the strawberries
Place the chopped strawberries in a large pot, ideal for making jams. Let them boil over medium heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process will help the strawberries release their juice and aroma.

3. Mixing the ingredients
In a separate bowl, mix the sugar, vanilla sugar, and gelling agent packets. This combination will add an intensified sweetness and a pleasant jelly-like texture. When the strawberries have boiled for 15 minutes, add the sugar and gelling mixture over them.

4. Continuing to boil
After adding the sugar, let the mixture boil for another 5 minutes. It is essential to stir constantly to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot. You will notice how the mixture becomes thicker, a sign that the jam is on the right track.

5. Preparing the jars
Meanwhile, prepare the jars. Place them without lids on a tray and put them in the preheated oven at 100 degrees Celsius. This process will sterilize the jars and help preserve the jam for a longer period. Leave the jars in the oven for 10-15 minutes.

6. Filling the jars
Once the jam has boiled and cooled slightly, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars. Fill them to the top edge, then screw on the lids. It is important to ensure that the jars are completely filled to avoid air formation.

7. Cooling and storing
To ensure that the jam seals properly, wrap the jars in a thick blanket and let them cool slowly overnight. This step will help create a vacuum seal that will keep the jam fresh for longer.

8. Enjoying the jam
After the jars have completely cooled, store them in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry. Strawberry jam is fantastic on toast, alongside a glass of milk, or as a filling in a delicious dessert. You can also use it to sweeten yogurt, Greek yogurt, or even a vanilla cake.

Useful tips:
- Choose ripe but firm strawberries to achieve a pleasant texture in the jam.
- If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar by about 20%.
- Don’t forget to adjust the amount of gelling agent according to the instructions on the package, depending on the type and brand.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberries are rich in vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are an excellent source of antioxidants. Consumed in moderation, strawberry jam can provide an energy boost and improve the immune system.

Variations:
If you want to experiment, you can add a few fresh mint leaves to the strawberry mixture for a refreshing taste. You can also combine strawberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create a delicious mixed jam.

Frequently asked questions:
1. How can I check if the jam is cooked enough?
A simple test is to put a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate. If it thickens and does not run, it is ready.
2. Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before use.
3. How long does strawberry jam keep?
If stored properly, the jam can last up to a year.

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to start cooking! Strawberry jam is not only a delicacy but also a pleasant reminder of summer that you can enjoy at any time of the year. So take your time, enjoy each step, and let yourself be inspired by the delicious aromas of strawberries! KSSS!