Strawberry jam

Strawberry Jam – A Sweet and Vibrant Delicacy

A strawberry jam recipe is not only a wonderful way to preserve the taste of summer but also an opportunity to enjoy a homemade treat that will delight your mornings on toast or pancakes. Strawberry jam is one of the simplest and quickest desserts, and with this recipe, you will manage to create a delicious and flavorful jam in just a few minutes.

Total time: 30 minutes
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Number of servings: 4 jars of 250 ml

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 kg fresh strawberries
- 1 lemon
- 1 pack of Extra 2:1 Gelling Sugar (Dr. Oetker)

A bit of history:
Jam, as a method of preserving fruits, dates back to antiquity. Whether it was grapes or citrus, people discovered that adding sugar helps prolong the shelf life of fruits. Strawberries, with their vibrant flavor and color, quickly became a favorite in jam making. This simple strawberry jam recipe is perfect for those who want to embrace the tradition of natural cooking and surprise their family with a sweet delight.

Preparing the strawberries:
1. Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water. It is important to ensure that no impurities remain, especially if you bought them from the market.
2. Remove the stems of the strawberries and cut them into smaller pieces to aid in the cooking process. For example, you can cut each strawberry into quarters or halves, depending on your preferences.

Preparing the jam:
1. Place the cut strawberries in a medium-sized pot. Make sure you have a pot with a thick bottom to avoid burning the jam.
2. Squeeze the juice from a fresh lemon over the strawberries. This not only adds a delicious flavor but also helps maintain a vibrant color in the jam.
3. Add the pack of Extra 2:1 Gelling Sugar. Mix the ingredients well so that the sugar is evenly distributed among the strawberries.
4. Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil. You will notice how the strawberries begin to release their juice, and the mixture takes on a more fluid consistency.
5. Boil the mixture for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot. The jam is ready when you achieve a thick and glossy paste.

Bottling the jam:
1. Before pouring the jam into jars, ensure they are clean and sterilized. You can sterilize the jars either in the oven or by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
2. Using a spoon or ladle, pour the hot jam into jars, leaving a small space at the top.
3. Immediately close the jars with lids, allowing them to cool at room temperature.

Practical tips:
- Ensure that the strawberries are ripe and fresh, as their quality will reflect in the taste of the jam.
- You can customize the jam by adding a few mint leaves or a little vanilla for a more exotic flavor.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, you can puree the strawberries with an immersion blender after boiling.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, it is a good option, but make sure to thaw and drain them well before using.

2. How can I tell if the jam is ready?
You can do the plate test: put a drop of jam on a cold plate, and if it holds its shape, it is ready.

3. How long does the jam last?
If stored in a cool, dark place, the jam can last up to a year. After opening, keep it in the fridge and consume it within a few weeks.

Nutritional values:
A serving of strawberry jam (approximately 20 g) contains on average:
- Calories: 50
- Fats: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Sugars: 12 g

Serving and combinations:
Strawberry jam pairs perfectly on toast, pancakes, or as a filling for cakes and tarts. You can also try using it in smoothies or yogurt for a delicious and healthy breakfast.

Possible variations:
- You can experiment with other fruits, such as raspberries or peaches, mixing them with strawberries for a unique flavor.
- Add a little cinnamon or ginger for an interesting twist.

I wish you much success in making this strawberry jam! It is a simple recipe but full of satisfaction that will bring you smiles and sweet memories. Enjoy every spoonful!