Strawberries made into jam - Panacris

Strawberry Jam - Classic Recipe

Do you want to bring the flavor of summer into your jars? Strawberry jam is a wonderful way to preserve the fresh taste of these delicious fruits, and today's recipe is a classic, simple version that is, most importantly, full of flavor. This strawberry jam recipe will surely become your favorite to sweeten your mornings or to complement your desserts.

Preparation Time
- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Rest: 12 hours (overnight)
- Boiling: 1 hour
- Total time: 13 hours and 30 minutes
- Number of servings: 12 jars of 400 g

Ingredients
- 3000 g fresh strawberries
- 1500 g granulated sugar
- 1 packet of lemon salt (approximately 5 g)

Necessary Utensils
- A large mixing bowl
- Double/triple bottom pot for boiling
- Skimmer
- Sterilized jars with lids (approximately 12 jars of 400 g)
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle

Step-by-step guide for perfect jam

1. Preparing the strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. This step is essential for removing impurities and pesticides. After washing, remove the stems and cut them in halves or quarters, depending on your preference. Whole strawberries will give a more rustic texture, while cut ones will create a more uniform jam.

2. Mixing the ingredients
Place the strawberries in a large bowl and add the granulated sugar and lemon salt. The lemon salt not only helps preserve the vibrant color of the strawberries but also adds a note of acidity that will balance the sweetness. Gently mix, shaking the bowl to ensure the sugar is well incorporated into the strawberries. Cover the bowl and let it sit in the fridge for at least 12 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the sugar to extract the juice from the fruit.

3. Boiling the jam
The next day, transfer the strawberry and sugar mixture to a double or triple bottom pot to prevent sticking. Place it over high heat, on a cooking plate (not directly on the flame), and let it boil for about 10 minutes. You will notice a foam forming on top – this is normal and should be removed with a skimmer to achieve a clear and transparent jam.

4. Reducing the heat
After removing the foam, reduce the heat to low and let the jam simmer slowly. Stir occasionally with a wooden spoon to prevent sticking. Continue boiling until you reach the desired consistency. A simple method to check the consistency is to place a drop of jam on a cold plate; if it does not spread and retains its shape, it is ready.

5. Preserving the jam
When your jam is ready, carefully pour it into the sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars tightly with the lids and place them upside down on a clean towel to create a vacuum inside. Let them cool completely, then store them in a cool, dark place.

Serving Suggestions
Strawberry jam is versatile and can be used in countless ways. You can spread it on a slice of toasted bread with butter, use it as a filling for cakes or pies, or add it to your favorite yogurt for a delicious breakfast. It is also delicious alongside fresh cheese or goat cheese.

Interesting Variations
If you want to experiment, you can add ingredients such as:
- Vanilla: add a split vanilla pod during boiling for a more complex flavor.
- Cinnamon: half a teaspoon of ground cinnamon added during boiling will add a warm and comforting aroma.
- Lemon: the juice of a fresh lemon added at the end of the process will enhance the flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber, making them an excellent food for supporting the immune system and improving digestive health. Additionally, strawberry jam can be a healthier option than many other pastries due to its natural sugar content.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why should I use lemon salt?
Lemon salt helps maintain the vibrant color of the strawberries and enhances the flavor, bringing a balance between sweet and sour.

2. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but it is recommended to thaw the strawberries and drain them before use to avoid diluting the jam.

3. How long does strawberry jam last?
If stored properly in a cool, dark place, the jam can last up to a year. Once opened, consume the jam within 2-3 months and keep it in the refrigerator.

Conclusion
With this simple yet flavorful recipe, you can enjoy the taste of fresh strawberries even in the middle of winter. The combined flavors and traditional preparation technique will turn each jar of jam into a little summer treasure. Don't forget to share this recipe with your friends and tell them about your experience. Now all that’s left is to get cooking and enjoy the delicious result!