Strawberry jam

Strawberry Jam – A summer delicacy that you can enjoy all year round

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 3 small jars

Strawberry jam is an excellent way to preserve the sweet and fragrant flavor of these delicious fruits throughout the year. This simple and quick recipe will turn your strawberries into sweet gold, without preservatives or additives. Here’s how you can prepare it step by step!

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh strawberries
- 1 kg granulated sugar
- Juice from half a lemon

Step 1: Preparing the strawberries
Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water. Make sure to remove any impurities. Remove the stems and cut the strawberries into smaller pieces to help with the cooking process. Place them in a large pot and sprinkle the sugar evenly over them. Cover the pot and leave it in the fridge overnight. This step is essential as it allows the strawberries to release their juice, which will enhance the flavor of the jam.

Step 2: Cooking the jam
The next day, take the pot out of the fridge and transfer the strawberries along with the juice into a large pot. Place it on low heat and let it simmer slowly. It’s important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During cooking, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer to remove it, to achieve a clearer and more attractive jam.

Step 3: Preparing the jars
To keep the jam in optimal condition, sterilizing the jars is essential. Wash 3 small jars thoroughly with dish soap, rinse them in several waters, and then dip them for a few seconds in a pot of boiling water. The same applies to the lids. Carefully remove them and place them upside down on a clean towel to dry.

Step 4: Finalizing the jam
After about an hour of cooking, when the jam has reduced by half, add the lemon juice. This will not only add a fresh taste but also help preserve the jam. Test the consistency of the jam by putting a drop on a cold plate; if it sets, it’s ready.

Step 5: Packing and storing
Fill the sterilized jars with hot jam, leaving a little space at the top. Seal each jar with a sterilized lid. Place the jars on a stainless steel tray to avoid breaking them. Cover them with a thick towel and let them cool completely. This process will create a vacuum, and when you open a jar, you will hear the characteristic popping sound.

Serving suggestions and variations
Strawberry jam is perfect for spreading on a slice of toast, but it can also be used as a filling for cakes or tarts. You can also experiment by adding herbs like mint or basil for a unique flavor. If you want to make a more exotic version, add a few drops of vanilla extract or cinnamon during cooking.

Personal note
To make a special gift, consider decorating the jars with a piece of colorful fabric and tying them with a ribbon. This way, you will bring a smile to the faces of those who receive them!

Now you are ready to turn your strawberries into delicious jam! Enjoy it and savor the taste of summer all year round!