Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry Jam - A Summer Recipe Full of Nostalgia

Welcome to the world of sweet delights! Today, I will share with you a recipe for strawberry jam, inspired by my grandmother's traditional recipes. Without preservatives and additives, this jam is the essence of summer, captured in jars. It is a simple yet flavorful recipe that reminds us of childhood, of sunny days spent in the garden, picking ripe, aromatic fruits. Let's begin our culinary adventure!

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 2 jars (450 g and 550 g)

Necessary ingredients

- 1200 g of fresh strawberries
- 500 g of sugar (preferably fine sugar for easier dissolving)

Step by step for perfect jam

Step 1: Preparing the strawberries
The first step in making this jam is to take care of the strawberries. Be sure to choose ripe strawberries, preferably from local sources, to achieve an authentic flavor. Wash the strawberries well under a stream of cold water, then, using a straw or a knife, remove the stems. This step is essential for achieving a uniform and pleasant texture.

Step 2: Chopping the strawberries
Once the strawberries are clean, cut them into smaller pieces. This will help release their natural juices during the cooking process. Place the strawberries in a large pot and cover them with sugar. Let them sit overnight, covered, at room temperature. This step will allow the strawberries to release their juice, and the sugar will begin to dissolve.

Step 3: Cooking the jam
The next day, you will notice that the mixture of strawberries and sugar has become a delicious paste. It’s time to start cooking! Place the pot over low heat and let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. A useful trick is to use a wooden spatula to check the consistency. If the mixture clings to the spatula, that’s a good sign!

Step 4: Testing the jam
To check if the jam is ready, drop a spoonful of syrup onto a cold plate. If the syrup does not run and holds its shape, the jam is ready! This is a simple yet effective technique that will help you achieve the desired consistency.

Step 5: Bottling
After the jam has cooked and thickened, let it cool slightly, then pour it into sterilized jars. It is important to use clean jars to prevent contamination. I used labels from Dr. Oetker to mark the jars with the preparation date. This detail not only looks nice but also helps you know when the jam was made.

Useful tips
- Choose quality strawberries: Look for ripe and firm strawberries to achieve a jam with an intense flavor.
- Store the jam in the fridge: Since it contains no preservatives, it is recommended to keep the jam in the fridge after opening.
- Try other fruits: This recipe can be adapted to include other fruits, such as raspberries or peaches. Experiment with combinations to discover new flavors!

Nutritional values
Strawberry jam is a good source of vitamin C and antioxidants. Although it contains sugar, consumed in moderation, it can be a delicious addition to various dishes. A serving of 100 g of strawberry jam contains approximately 250 calories.

Frequently asked questions
- Can I use alternative sweeteners?
Yes, you can experiment with natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, but keep in mind that these may alter the texture and final taste of the jam.
- How can I check if the jam is well preserved?
If the lid of the jar sinks inward when pressed, it is a sign that the jam has not sealed properly. It is recommended to consume it immediately.

Serving and combinations
Strawberry jam is perfect for enjoying on toasted bread or pancakes. It can also be used to add a sweet touch to yogurts or cheeses. Additionally, it is delicious alongside fruit teas or summer refreshing drinks.

A personal note: This recipe reminds me of the days spent at my grandmother's house, when each jar of jam was a little treasure, prepared with love. I encourage you to share your experiences and memories related to jams, perhaps even create a family tradition! Don’t forget to share the recipe with your loved ones and enjoy every spoonful!

Enjoy your meal!