Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry Jam – A Flavorful Delicacy

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 45-60 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Servings: 10-12 jars (depending on jar size)

Strawberry jam is a symbol of summer, an explosion of flavors and a sweet indulgence that reminds us of sunny days spent in nature. This simple and flavorful recipe will transform your fresh strawberries into a delicacy that you will love, not just in warm weather, but all year round.

Ingredients needed:
- 3 kg fresh strawberries
- 1.5 kg sugar
- Optional: juice of one lemon (for a more vibrant taste and to aid preservation)

Ingredient details:
Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Choose ripe, aromatic strawberries without blemishes. Sugar is not just a sweetener; it helps preserve the jam, giving it a beautiful, glossy texture. If you want to add a hint of acidity, lemon juice is perfect.

Step by step:

1. Washing and preparing the strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries under cold running water. It is recommended to remove the stems and discard any spoiled parts. This is the perfect time to appreciate the fresh aroma of strawberries.

2. Mixing with sugar:
After washing, place the strawberries in a large bowl and add the sugar. Gently mix until the sugar evenly coats each strawberry. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it sit overnight at room temperature. This step allows the strawberries to release their juice, creating a delicious natural syrup.

3. Cooking the jam:
The next day, prepare a large pot, preferably one with a thick bottom. Pour the strawberry and sugar mixture into the pot and place it over medium heat. Start stirring constantly to prevent sticking. As they heat up, the strawberries will begin to release juice.

4. Removing the foam:
During cooking, you will notice foam forming on the surface. This is normal, but it is good to remove it with a skimmer to achieve a clear and beautiful jam.

5. Consistency test:
After about 30-40 minutes of boiling, start checking the consistency of the jam. Place a teaspoon of jam on a cold plate and let it sit for a few seconds. If it does not spread, it is ready! If it is still too liquid, continue boiling for a few more minutes.

6. Bottling:
Turn off the heat and let the jam cool slightly. While still warm, pour the jam into sterilized jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely at room temperature.

7. Storing:
Once the jars have cooled, store the strawberry jam in a pantry, in a dark and cool place.

Serving suggestions:
Strawberry jam is perfect on a slice of toasted bread, alongside butter or cheese, but can also be used as a filling for cakes, pancakes, or pies. You can add it to Greek yogurt for a delicious and healthy breakfast.

Possible variations:
- Strawberry mint jam: Add a few fresh mint leaves during cooking for a refreshing flavor.
- Strawberry vanilla jam: Add a split vanilla pod during boiling for a remarkable taste.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. How much jam can I get from 3 kg of strawberries?
Usually, from 3 kg of strawberries, you can get about 10-12 jars of jam, depending on their size.

2. How long does the jam last?
If properly sterilized, strawberry jam can be stored for a year. After opening the jar, it is recommended to consume it within 4-6 weeks.

3. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, frozen strawberries can be used, but make sure to thaw them completely and drain any excess water before mixing with sugar.

Nutritional benefits:
Strawberry jam is rich in antioxidants and vitamins, but it is important to consume it in moderation due to its sugar content.

Personal note:
My memories of strawberry jam are closely tied to my childhood when my grandmother made it with great love. The aroma that filled the house and the moments spent together are priceless. I hope this recipe will also bring you joy and beautiful memories!

Now that you have all the necessary information, all that’s left is to get cooking! Enjoy the process and savor the final result. Strawberry jam will bring a touch of summer to every day!