Get ready to make the most delicious Strawberry Jam you’ve ever tasted!
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the strawberries and sugar. Let sit for 1 hour to allow the sugar to extract the juices from the strawberries.
- Add the lemon juice to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens.
- Remove from heat and let cool before transferring to sterile jars for storage.
Popular questions:
- Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?
- Can I reduce the amount of sugar for a lower calorie jam?
- Can I use bottled lemon juice instead of fresh?
- How long will the jam last in the fridge?
- Can I use this jam for baking purposes?
- What if my jam doesn’t thicken after simmering?
- Can I add other fruits to this recipe?
- Can I use honey instead of sugar?
- Can I omit the lemon juice?
- Can I make a larger batch of this jam?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but make sure to thaw and drain them before using.
You can reduce the sugar, but it may affect the consistency and shelf life of the jam.
Fresh lemon juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled can be substituted in a pinch.
Properly stored, the jam can last up to 2 weeks in the fridge.
Yes, this jam can be used as a filling for cakes, pastries, and other baked goods.
You can add a teaspoon of pectin to help thicken the jam, or continue simmering until desired consistency is reached.
You can experiment with adding other fruits like raspberries or blueberries for a mixed berry jam.
You can substitute honey for sugar, but it will alter the taste of the jam.
Lemon juice helps with the setting of the jam, so it’s recommended to use it.
You can double or triple the recipe, just make sure to adjust cooking times accordingly.
Helpful tips:
- Add a pinch of salt to enhance the flavor of the jam.
- For a smoother jam, use an immersion blender to puree the strawberries before cooking.
- Store the jam in sterilized jars to prolong its shelf life.
- Experiment with adding herbs like mint or basil for a unique flavor twist.
- For a thicker jam, cook it longer until it reaches your desired consistency.
- Make sure to skim off any foam that forms on the surface of the jam while cooking.
- Try using brown sugar for a richer, more caramelized flavor in the jam.
- For a hint of spice, add a dash of cinnamon or ginger to the jam mixture.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar for a tangy kick in your strawberry jam.
- Label and date your jars of jam for easy identification and rotation in your pantry.
Expert Secrets:
- Gently crush some of the strawberries with a fork to release more juices and flavor.
- Let the jam cool for a few minutes before transferring to jars to avoid spoilage.
- Use a wide, shallow pan to cook the jam for quicker evaporation and thicker consistency.
- Test the jam’s doneness by placing a small amount on a chilled plate – it should gel and wrinkle when pushed with your finger.
- Adjust the sweetness level by tasting the jam as it cooks and adding more sugar if needed.
- Make sure your jars are completely dry before filling with hot jam to prevent bacteria growth.
- Skim off any impurities that rise to the surface while cooking to ensure a clear, clean jam.
- Store jars of jam in a cool, dark place for optimal flavor and longevity.
- Experiment with different fruits, spices, and sweeteners to create unique flavor combinations in your homemade jam.
- Share your homemade jam with friends and family to spread the love and enjoy the fruits of your labor together.