Fresh Strawberry Jam Recipe
Fresh, homemade strawberry jam is a delicious treat thatโs perfect for adding a burst of fruity sweetness to your breakfast, snacks, or desserts. This easy-to-make strawberry jam combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with a touch of tangy lemon juice to create a delightful spread that you can enjoy on toast, biscuits, or as a topping for cakes and pastries.
Whether you use fresh or frozen strawberries, this recipe ensures you can indulge in the goodness of strawberry jam anytime of the year. The jamโs simple preparation and short cooking time make it a must-try, especially when strawberries are in season.
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Strawberries | 200 grams (fresh or frozen) |
| Sugar | 200 grams (adjustable) |
| Lemon juice | 2 tablespoons |
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Cuisine: Continental
Course: Side Dish
Diet: Vegetarian
Instructions:
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Prepare the Strawberries:
Begin by washing the strawberries thoroughly if you’re using fresh ones. Remove the stems, and place the berries in a large bowl. Crush the strawberries using a fork or a potato masher until you have a rough puree. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use a food processor to coarsely blend the strawberries. The choice is yours! -
Mix the Ingredients:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, combine the crushed strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to ensure the sugar dissolves evenly. This mixture will form the base of your strawberry jam. -
Cook the Jam:
Set the pan over low heat, and let the mixture simmer gently while stirring occasionally. Keep stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Once the sugar has dissolved, increase the heat to medium-high. Allow the mixture to boil for about 8 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan. You’ll start to notice the jam thickening as it cooks. -
Check the Consistency:
To check if the jam is ready, drop a spoonful of the jam onto a cold plate. Let it cool for a few seconds, and then run your finger through it. If the jam wrinkles and doesn’t run, itโs done. If itโs still too runny, continue boiling for a few more minutes and test again. -
Cool and Store:
Once the jam reaches the desired consistency, turn off the heat. Carefully transfer the hot jam into a sterilized jar. Allow the jam to cool to room temperature. Once it has cooled down, you can seal the jar. For long-term storage, refrigerate the jam, where it will stay fresh for up to 2 to 3 months. -
Serving Suggestions:
Your homemade strawberry jam is now ready to enjoy! Spread it generously on toast, fresh scones, or even swirl it into yogurt or oatmeal. For a delicious breakfast on a busy morning, pair it with a hot cup of Masala Chai for a perfect start to your day.
Tips for Making the Perfect Strawberry Jam:
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Sugar Adjustments: You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your sweetness preference and the natural sweetness of the strawberries youโre using. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, reduce the sugar slightly.
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Sterilizing Jars: Before storing your jam, make sure your jar is sterilized to keep it fresh for longer. You can sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or by placing them in the oven at 160ยฐC (320ยฐF) for about 10 minutes.
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Freezing Option: If you have leftover jam or want to make a larger batch, strawberry jam freezes beautifully. Just ensure you leave some space at the top of the jar for expansion when freezing.
Enjoy your homemade strawberry jam as a sweet addition to your favorite foods, or give it away as a thoughtful homemade gift!
