Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry jam - a classic, simple, and delicious recipe

Strawberry jam is a dessert that reminds us of sunny summer days, stories shared around the table, and moments spent with loved ones. Strawberries, with their sweet and unmistakable aroma, become the main ingredients in this recipe, transforming into a delight that can be enjoyed on toast, in yogurt, or even as a filling for cakes. This recipe is perfect for preserving the taste of summer all year round.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400 g

Ingredients:

- 3 kg fresh strawberries
- 2 packets of Gelfix 2:1 (a natural gelling agent)
- 2 kg sugar
- juice of one fresh lemon

Before we begin, let’s take a look at our ingredients. Strawberries are packed with vitamins, especially vitamin C, and are low in calories, making them ideal for a healthy diet. It is important to choose fresh strawberries, free of blemishes, preferably from local sources. The Gelfix helps achieve the perfect consistency of the jam, and the lemon juice not only adds a delicious flavor but also helps preserve the vibrant color of the strawberries.

Step by step in making strawberry jam:

1. Wash and prepare the strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries in several cold waters. Make sure to remove any impurities or leaves. Once well washed, cut the strawberries into quarters. This step will allow the fruit to release juice more easily during boiling.

2. Boil the strawberries: Place the cut strawberries in a large pot. Add 1 kg of sugar and mix well. Let them sit for about 30 minutes to extract the juice. Then, place the pot over medium heat and let the strawberries boil for 20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

3. Add the Gelfix: After 20 minutes of boiling, add the two packets of Gelfix and 4 tablespoons of sugar. Mix everything well and let it boil for 2 minutes, stirring constantly. The Gelfix will help thicken the mixture, and the jam will start to achieve a thicker consistency.

4. Finalizing the jam: Finally, add the remaining sugar and lemon juice. Mix well and let it boil for another 1-2 minutes. Taste the jam and adjust the sugar or lemon juice according to your preferences.

5. Bottling: Prepare the jars for preservation. They should be clean and ideally preheated (you can keep them in the oven at 100 degrees Celsius for a few minutes). Pour the hot jam into the jars, filling them up to 1 cm from the edge. Place the lids on and turn the jars upside down to sterilize.

6. Storage: Let the jars cool completely at room temperature. Then, store them in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight.

Practical tips:

- If you want a smoother jam, you can puree the strawberries before boiling them.
- You can experiment by adding other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create a mixed jam.
- Always check the labels of the ingredients you use to ensure they are natural and healthy.

Serving suggestions:

Strawberry jam is wonderful on toast, buttered bread, or paired with cheese. You can also use it as a topping for yogurt or ice cream, and for an elegant dessert, add it to cheesecakes or pastries.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to let them thaw and drain excess water before adding them to the recipe.

2. How long can the jam be stored?
If prepared correctly, the jam can be stored for 1-2 years. Once opened, keep it in the refrigerator and consume it within a few weeks.

3. Why should I use Gelfix?
Gelfix helps achieve the perfect consistency of the jam without needing a large amount of sugar, and it contributes to preserving the flavors of the fruit.

This strawberry jam recipe is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to preserve summer memories. Whether you enjoy it yourself or gift it to someone dear, it is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face. Cook with love and enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen!