Strawberry jam recipe

Strawberry Jam - A delicious and simple recipe to bring summer into jars

Strawberry jam is a classic, beloved preparation that reminds us of warm summer days and the fresh taste of seasonal fruits. This simple recipe will help you transform juicy strawberries into aromatic jam, perfect for enjoying with toast, pancakes, or as a filling for cakes. Moreover, strawberry jam makes a wonderful gift for friends and family when prepared with love.

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 10 jars of 250 g

Necessary ingredients:
- 2.5 kg fresh strawberries
- 3 cups of water
- 1.7 kg sugar
- Juice squeezed from 1 lemon

Necessary accessories:
- A cast iron pot (or a large stainless steel pot)
- A wooden spoon
- Glass jars with lids
- Strainer
- Cloth or towels for covering

Step by step for perfect jam:

1. Preparing the strawberries: Start by washing the strawberries well under a stream of cold water. Choose fresh, ripe fruits without spots or mold. After washing, place them in a strainer to drain excess water. Carefully remove the green tops of the strawberries.

2. Preparing the syrup: In a cast iron pot, add the 3 cups of water and sugar. Place the pot over medium heat and let the syrup boil. Stir occasionally to ensure the sugar completely dissolves. Let it boil for about 20 minutes or until the syrup thickens slightly.

3. Adding the strawberries: When the syrup is ready, add the whole strawberries. Let them boil over medium heat, gently stirring with a wooden spoon to avoid crushing them. At this point, it is important to skim off the foam that forms on the surface with a skimmer. This will help achieve a clear and appetizing jam.

4. Adding lemon juice: When the jam has reduced by about half, it's time to add the lemon juice. Strain it well to avoid introducing seeds into the mixture. The lemon will not only add a pleasant taste but also help preserve the jam.

5. Finalizing the preparation: Let the jam boil for another 3-4 boils, stirring occasionally. Test the consistency of the jam: drop a little on a cold plate. If it thickens, it’s ready! If not, let it cook for a few more minutes.

6. Bottling: Wash the jars with hot water to sterilize them. After draining them well, fill the jars with hot jam. Screw the lids tightly and place the jars upside down for 10 minutes. This trick will help seal the jars. Once cooled, turn them back and cover with a thick blanket to keep them warm. The next day, store them in a cool, dark place.

Practical tips:
- Choosing strawberries: Opt for seasonal strawberries, as they have the best taste and flavor. Buy them from the market or directly from farmers if possible.
- Natural preservatives: Lemon juice is an excellent natural preservative. Additionally, you can add a bit of cinnamon or vanilla to enhance the flavor.
- Mint variant: Add a few fresh mint leaves during boiling for a refreshing note.

Nutritional values (per 100 g):
- Calories: approximately 250 kcal
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 64 g
- Protein: 0 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Vitamin C: 60% of RDI

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen strawberries?: Yes, but make sure to thaw them well and drain before use to avoid excess water.
2. How can I adjust the sweetness?: If you prefer it less sweet, you can reduce the sugar by 200-300 g.
3. How long does it keep?: Strawberry jam can be stored for about 1-2 years if stored correctly.

Serving and combinations:
Strawberry jam is perfect for serving on toast, in pancakes, or as a topping for natural yogurt. You can also try using it as a filling for delicious cakes or tortes. An interesting idea is to combine it with fresh cheese or ricotta for a refined breakfast.

In conclusion, making strawberry jam is a pleasant and rewarding activity. It will make you feel like a true chef, and the delicious flavors will accompany you throughout the year, reminding you of sunny summer days. Try this simple recipe and enjoy the authentic taste of strawberries!