Strawberry Jam Recipe

Strawberry jam recipe is one of those timeless kitchen staples that brings a burst of summer to your breakfast table, no matter the season. Whether slathered on toast, dolloped on scones, or swirled into yogurt, homemade strawberry jam is both delicious and versatile. Making your own strawberry jam at home is surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Plus, it allows you to control the sweetness and preserve the bright, natural flavor of fresh strawberries.

A Brief History of Strawberry Jam:

Strawberries have been enjoyed for their sweet flavor since ancient Roman times, but it wasn’t until the early 19th century that strawberry jam as we know it became popular. The introduction of sugar refining and the invention of canning methods allowed people to preserve fruit in new ways. By the mid-1800s, strawberry jam had become a beloved treat in Europe and North America, often enjoyed with bread, pastries, or as a filling in desserts.

Strawberry Jam Recipe

Strawberries have been enjoyed for their sweet flavor since ancient Roman times, but it wasn't until the early 19th century that strawberry jam as we know it became popular. The introduction of sugar refining and the invention of canning methods allowed people to preserve fruit in new ways. By the mid-1800s, strawberry jam had become a beloved treat in Europe and North America, often enjoyed with bread, pastries, or as a filling in desserts.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Course Breakfast

Cuisine Europe, North America, Roman

Servings 4

Calories 50 kcal

Equipment

• Large saucepan or jam pot
• Wooden spoon
• Potato masher or fork
• Ladle
• Sterilized glass jars with lids
• Funnel (optional)

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
• 4 cups granulated sugar
• 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice

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Instructions

 

• Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly under cold water. Remove the green tops and hulls, then slice the strawberries in half. If your strawberries are particularly large, you might want to quarter them. Place the prepared strawberries into a large saucepan or jam pot.
• Using a potato masher or a fork, gently mash the strawberries in the pot. You can mash them to your desired consistency—chunky for more texture or smoother if you prefer a more spreadable jam.
• Add the sugar and lemon juice to the mashed strawberries. Stir the mixture well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed. The lemon juice not only adds a slight tangy flavor but also helps the jam set by interacting with the natural pectin in the strawberries.
• Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat slightly and continue cooking for 30-40 minutes. As the jam cooks, skim off any foam that forms on the surface with a spoon. This will help keep your jam clear and bright.
• To check if your jam is ready, place a small plate in the freezer for a few minutes. Drop a small amount of the jam onto the cold plate and let it sit for a moment. Push the jam with your finger; if it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s done. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes and test again.
• Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from the heat. Using a ladle and a funnel (if you have one), carefully pour the hot jam into sterilized glass jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth, then seal with the lids.
• Allow the jars to cool to room temperature. As they cool, you may hear a popping sound, which means the jars have sealed properly. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep the jam in the refrigerator.

Video

Keyword Strawberry Jam Recipe

Similar Recipes:

– Raspberry Jam: A tart and tangy alternative, raspberry jam is made using a similar process but with fresh raspberries.
– Blueberry Jam: This jam has a deep, rich flavor and is a perfect topping for pancakes or yogurt.
– Mixed Berry Jam: Combine strawberries, raspberries, blueberries, and blackberries for a sweet and complex jam.
– Peach Jam: A sweet and juicy jam made with fresh, ripe peaches, perfect for summer.
– Fig Jam: A rich and flavorful jam that pairs beautifully with cheese and crackers.

Frequently Asked Questions About Strawberry Jam Recipe:

1. Can I use frozen strawberries to make jam?

Yes, frozen strawberries can be used to make jam. Just thaw them first and proceed with the recipe as usual.

2. Do I need to use pectin?

This recipe doesn’t require added pectin. The natural pectin in strawberries, combined with lemon juice, is usually enough to set the jam.

3. How long does homemade strawberry jam last?

Unopened jars of homemade jam can last up to a year when stored in a cool, dark place. Once opened, the jam should be refrigerated and used within a month.

4. Can I reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe?

You can reduce the sugar, but keep in mind that it may affect the jam’s ability to set properly and its shelf life.

5. Why is my jam too runny?

If your jam is too runny, it may not have cooked long enough. You can return it to the pot and cook it for a few more minutes to thicken.

6. What can I do if my jam is too thick?

If your jam is too thick, you can gently reheat it with a small amount of water or fruit juice to reach the desired consistency.

7. Can I make strawberry jam without lemon juice?

Lemon juice helps the jam set and adds flavor. If you don’t have lemon juice, you can use another acid, such as lime juice or vinegar, but the flavor may change slightly.

8. Can I add other fruits to the jam?

Absolutely! You can mix in other berries or fruits to create a unique blend.

Conclusion:

Making homemade strawberry jam is a delightful way to preserve the sweet taste of summer all year long. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you can create a delicious and versatile spread that’s perfect for a variety of dishes. Plus, there’s something truly special about opening a jar of homemade jam, knowing that it’s made with love and care.

YouTube Video Credits:
Preppy Kitchen