Strawberry jam with cranberries and ginger
Strawberry Jam Recipe with Cranberries and Ginger – A Delight Easy to Prepare
Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 5-6 jars of 400g
Strawberry jam is a classic delicacy that reminds us of sunny summer days, even on the coldest winter days. This recipe for strawberry jam with cranberries and ginger not only combines sweet flavors but also adds a spicy note and a touch of freshness. Besides its exceptional taste, strawberry jam is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients
- 500 g ripe strawberries
- 1 kiwi
- 1 handful of dried cranberries
- 1 small piece of ginger (about 2-3 cm)
- 100 g sugar (about 1/2 cup)
- 1 peeled apple
- 1 peeled orange, free of skin and seeds
- 1 lemon (juice)
Useful
- Sterilized jars (about 5-6 jars of 400g)
- Oven for sterilization
- Large pot for boiling
- Fruit puree or blender (optional)
Step-by-Step Preparation
Step 1: Preparing the Fruits
Start by washing the strawberries in a mixture of water and lemon juice to clean them of impurities and preserve their vibrant color. After washing, remove the stems and cut the strawberries into smaller pieces, as preferred.
Step 2: The Aromatic Mix
In a large bowl, add the chopped strawberries, peeled and diced kiwi, cranberries, grated (or diced) apple, and the peeled orange. Add the sugar and lemon juice. The lemon will not only help with preservation but will also provide a pleasant acidity, balancing the sweetness of the jam.
Step 3: Flavoring with Ginger
At this point, you can choose to use the ginger in two ways: either grate it to incorporate it into the jam, or leave it whole and remove it at the end. Ginger adds a spicy note and a distinct aroma, but it’s important to choose the option that best suits your preferences.
Step 4: Boiling the Jam
Place the fruit mixture in a large pot and bring it to a boil over medium heat. Stir frequently to avoid sticking. As the fruits begin to break down, you can mash some of them with a spatula, leaving some pieces for texture. Boil the mixture for 30-40 minutes or until the jam thickens. Check the consistency of the jam using the "plate circle" method: put a drop of jam on a cold plate and drag your finger through the middle – if a circle forms, the jam is ready.
Step 5: Sterilizing the Jars
While the jam is boiling, I recommend sterilizing the jars. Place them in the oven at 100°C for 10-15 minutes. If you want to ensure they won’t spoil, you can place them on a plate or wooden stand to avoid direct contact with the oven surface.
Step 6: Filling the Jars
When the jam is ready, pour it hot into the sterilized jars, filling them to 1-2 cm from the top. Cover the jars with lids, but do not tighten them completely. Place them back in the oven for a few minutes to help form a sealing layer.
Step 7: Cooling and Storing
After removing the jars from the oven, let them cool to room temperature. You can turn the jars upside down to ensure a good seal. The next day, you can check the seal and store them in a cool, dark place.
Practical Tips
1. Choosing the Fruits: Use ripe strawberries, but not overly soft ones. The cranberries add a note of acidity that perfectly complements the sweetness of the strawberries.
2. Sugar: If the fruits are very sweet, you can reduce the amount of sugar. Taste along the way and adjust according to your preferences.
3. Vegan Option: The recipe is already vegan, but if you want to enhance it even more, you can add a little pomegranate juice for an extra boost of antioxidants.
4. Serving: Strawberry jam pairs perfectly with toast, pancakes, or yogurt. You can also use the jam as a filling for cakes or pastries, bringing a touch of freshness.
Nutritional Benefits
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, contributing to a healthy immune system. Cranberries are known for their antioxidant properties and can support urinary tract health, while ginger is appreciated for its anti-inflammatory benefits. This combination of ingredients not only offers a delicious taste but also important nutritional benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use other fruits?
Of course! You can experiment with other seasonal fruits such as peaches or raspberries.
2. How long does the jam last?
If properly sterilized and stored under optimal conditions, the jam can last up to a year.
3. Is it necessary to add preservatives?
No, the acidity of the lemon and the sugar help preserve the jam. Make sure the jars are well sterilized.
4. What drinks pair well with this jam?
A cup of green tea or a cold lemonade are excellent to accompany a toast with strawberry jam.
I hope this recipe brings you joy in the kitchen and in every jar of jam you prepare. Don’t forget to share the results with your loved ones and enjoy the flavors and colors of this delicious jam!
Ingredients: I used some strawberries that weren't very fragrant, so I tried to enhance their flavor by adding a few other fruits: 1/2 kg of ripe strawberries 1 kiwi, ties the jam well 1 handful of dried cranberries 1 small piece of ginger the size of a finger 1/2 cup of sugar, 100 g 1 peeled apple 1 orange peeled as much as possible from the skin and seeds 1 lemon
