Fresh Strawberry Jam Recipe (Strawberry Preserve)
Nothing compares to the bright, fresh flavor of homemade strawberry jam. Jams made from freshly picked fruit, as opposed to store-bought, offer an unmatched richness that brings the essence of summer into every spoonful. This recipe, passed down from my mother’s collection, is a true classic—simple and bursting with flavor. The beauty of this jam lies in its purity; just ripe strawberries, sugar, and a touch of lemon juice to balance the sweetness, resulting in a perfect spread for your morning toast or a delightful addition to desserts.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Strawberries | 1 kg |
| Sugar | 4 cups |
| Lemon Juice | 3 tablespoons |
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 0 minutes (Preparation can vary based on how you handle the strawberries)
- Cook Time: 0 minutes (However, cooking time will be required once the process begins)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Strawberries: Begin by thoroughly washing the strawberries to remove any dirt or impurities. Once cleaned, cut the strawberries into small pieces, removing the stems. If you’d like a smoother jam, you can crush the strawberries to your desired consistency, but it’s up to you whether you prefer a chunkier texture.
-
Mash the Strawberries: In a large bowl, begin crushing the strawberries. You’ll need to crush them in batches to ensure that you get a full 4 cups of mashed fruit. You can use a potato masher, fork, or a food processor, depending on your texture preference. Once mashed, set them aside.
-
Cook the Jam: In a heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the mashed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture over low heat to help dissolve the sugar completely. This is a crucial step to avoid burning the sugar, so be sure to stir frequently.
-
Boil the Mixture: Once the sugar is dissolved, increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil. Stir occasionally to prevent any scorching. The goal here is to achieve the right consistency, which can be tested once the jam begins to thicken.
-
Test for the Right Consistency: To ensure that your jam will set perfectly, it’s a good idea to perform a test. Before you begin boiling, place three plates in your freezer. After about 10 minutes of boiling, place a teaspoon of the jam liquid onto one of the cold plates and return the plate to the freezer for a minute. Afterward, run your finger through the jam. If it leaves a clean line and doesn’t run back together, your jam is ready. If it’s too runny, continue to cook for a few more minutes and test again.
-
Canning the Jam (Optional): Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, it’s time to transfer it into jars. Make sure to sterilize the jars beforehand by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. While the jars are still hot, pour the jam into them, leaving about 1/4 to 1/2 inch of headspace at the top. Seal the jars tightly using the canning method. If you don’t plan to keep the jam for long-term storage, you can skip the canning process and simply refrigerate the jam for use within the next few weeks.
-
Storing and Enjoying: If you’re planning to store the jam for a longer period, use the canning method as described. Otherwise, enjoy your homemade strawberry jam on toast, in desserts, or as a topping for your favorite treats. Once canned properly, the jam can be stored for up to a year, but if kept refrigerated, it should stay fresh for a few weeks.
Tips for Success:
- Use Ripe Strawberries: The fresher the strawberries, the better your jam will taste. Try to use ripe, juicy strawberries for a naturally sweet jam.
- Storage: If you plan on canning your jam, make sure the jars are sterile to avoid contamination. If you’re not familiar with the canning process, there are plenty of detailed guides available online to help.
- Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar in the recipe.
This strawberry jam captures the essence of summer in every jar. It’s a timeless recipe that allows you to savor the taste of fresh strawberries long after the season has passed. Enjoy it with family, on your favorite pastries, or as a special treat at breakfast!
