Indulge in the Strawberry Serenade Jam, a harmonious blend of sweet, ripe strawberries that create a melody of flavors in every spoonful. This homemade jam captures the essence of fresh strawberries, offering a bright, fruity spread that's perfect for enhancing your breakfasts, desserts, and more with a touch of natural sweetness.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: About 3 cups
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
Nutritional Profile (per tablespoon)
- Calories: 30 kcal
- Protein: 0.1 g
- Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 7.5 g
- Fiber: 0.2 g
- Sugar: 7 g
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and halved (1 kg / 2.2 lbs / 35 oz)
- Granulated sugar (500g / 1.1 lbs / 17.6 oz)
- Lemon juice (30ml / 2 tbsp / 1 oz)
- Pectin (optional, for thicker jam) (5g / 0.2 oz)
Detailed Method of Preparation
- Macerate Strawberries: In a large bowl, mix strawberries with sugar and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Cook the Mixture: Transfer the strawberries to a large saucepan. Add lemon juice and bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring frequently.
- Simmer and Thicken: Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes. For a thicker jam, add pectin and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Test for Doneness: To test, place a small amount of jam on a cold plate. If it gels, it’s done.
- Jar and Cool: Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving some space at the top. Seal and let cool.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Quality of Strawberries: Choose ripe, flavorful strawberries for the best taste.
- Skimming Foam: Remove any foam that forms on top for a clearer jam.
- Storage: Store in a cool, dry place, or refrigerate for extended shelf life.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries?
Yes, but let them thaw first and drain any excess liquid.
How long does strawberry jam last?
Properly stored, it can last up to 1 month in the refrigerator.
Can I make this jam less sweet?
Adjust the sugar according to your preference, but remember it also helps in preservation.