Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry Jam – a recipe loved by children and not only

Strawberry jam is one of those delights that remind us of the warm moments of summer, when strawberries are in season and their inviting aroma delights our senses. This simple and quick recipe is perfect for turning fresh strawberries into a sweet treat, ideal for breakfasts, desserts, or simply as a delicious snack. Additionally, strawberry jam can be a wonderful gift for loved ones!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 90 minutes
Number of servings: 8 jars of 400g

A brief story about strawberry jam

Strawberry jam has a long history, being prepared in various cultures around the world. Strawberries, with their unmistakable aroma, are highly appreciated fruits, and the process of preserving them through jam has been an ingenious way to enjoy them throughout the year. Whether served on a slice of toast or alongside creamy ice cream, strawberry jam is a true symbol of summer.

Ingredients:

- 4 kg fresh, ripe, and aromatic strawberries
- 2 kg granulated sugar
- 2 packets of Gelfix (a natural thickening agent)

Details about the ingredients

Strawberries: Choose fresh strawberries, only a few days after harvesting, preferably from local sources. They should be firm, without spots or signs of spoilage. Strawberries are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, providing benefits for the immune system and skin health.

Sugar: Essential for preserving the jam and enhancing flavors. You can use white sugar or brown sugar, depending on your preferences. Brown sugar adds a hint of caramelization and a deeper flavor.

Gelfix: A product that helps thicken the jam, giving it the perfect texture. It is important to follow the proportions indicated on the package to achieve the desired result.

Step by step: How to make strawberry jam

1. Preparing the strawberries
Start by removing the stems from the strawberries. Make sure to wash them carefully, in two waters, to avoid crushing them. Strawberries are delicate, so instead of rubbing them, gently rinse them.

2. Macerate the strawberries
Place the strawberries in a large pot that will be used for boiling. Cover them with 1.5 kg of sugar and let them sit overnight. This step allows the fruits to release their juice, which will intensify the flavor of the jam.

3. Boiling the jam
The next day, place the pot over medium heat and wait for it to start simmering gently. Once it begins to boil, reduce the heat to low. It is important to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

4. Adding the Gelfix
Mix the remaining sugar (500 g) with the two packets of Gelfix. Add the mixture over the strawberries and stir gently to avoid crushing the fruits. Continue to boil the jam for about 60 minutes, removing the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer.

5. Sterilizing the jars
While the jam is boiling, sterilize the jars in which you will store it. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10-15 minutes or by using the oven at 120°C for 15-20 minutes.

6. Bottling the jam
After the jam has boiled for an hour, fill the sterilized jars with the hot jam. Make sure to seal them well and turn them upside down to create a vacuum. Cover them until they cool completely, preferably overnight.

7. Storing
Once the jars have cooled, store them in a cool, dark place. Strawberry jam can be kept for a year, but it certainly won’t last that long!

Useful tips

- For an exotic taste: Add a teaspoon of lemon juice or a few mint leaves during boiling to enhance the flavor.
- Jam variations: You can combine strawberries with other fruits, such as raspberries or blackberries, to create a mixed jam. This will add variety and intensify the taste.
- Serving: Strawberry jam can be served over pancakes, on toast, with yogurt, or as a filling for cakes. It is delicious to combine it with cheese or as a topping for ice cream.

Frequently asked questions

1. Why does foam form on the jam?
Foam forms from air and impurities that rise to the surface during boiling. It is important to remove it to achieve a clear and beautiful jam.

2. How do I know when the jam is ready?
The jam is ready when it holds its shape and does not run off a spoon. You can do a simple test: put a drop on a cold plate, and if it holds, it is ready.

3. Can I use something else instead of Gelfix?
Yes, you can also use natural pectin, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package to achieve optimal consistency.

Nutritional benefits

Strawberry jam is an excellent source of vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber. Strawberries are linked to improved cardiovascular health, reduced inflammation, and improved digestion. However, moderation is recommended due to the high sugar content.

I hope this strawberry jam recipe brings you joy and delicious moments with your loved ones! Don’t forget to share the final result and enjoy every spoonful of this sweet treasure!