Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe – A Sweet and Tangy Delight

Homemade strawberry jam is a delicious and simple way to enjoy the sweet flavors of strawberries year-round. Perfect for spreading on toast, pairing with desserts, or as a topping for pancakes, this recipe uses just a few ingredients to create a fresh and flavorful jam.

Ingredients

• 1 kg fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 800g granulated sugar
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• 1 tsp vanilla extract (optional, for added flavor)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Strawberries

1. Rinse and hull the strawberries, then chop them into small pieces.

2. Combine Ingredients

1. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice.
2. Stir well and let the mixture sit for 15-20 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.

3. Cook the Jam

1. Place the pot over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar dissolves.
2. Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil. Stir constantly to prevent sticking or burning.
3. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to crush the strawberries for a smoother texture, or leave some chunks for a rustic jam.

4. Test for Doneness

1. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, the jam should start to thicken. To test, place a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, the jam is ready.

5. Add Vanilla (Optional)

1. Stir in the vanilla extract, if using, and mix well.

6. Jar the Jam

1. Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool slightly.
2. Pour the jam into sterilized jars, leaving a small gap at the top.
3. Seal the jars tightly and allow them to cool completely before storing.

Storage

• Store the jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer storage, use the proper canning method to seal the jars.

Tips

• Use fresh, ripe strawberries for the best flavor and natural sweetness.
• Adjust the sugar to taste, but note that sugar helps preserve the jam.
• Stir frequently while cooking to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Nutrition Chart for Strawberry Jam (per tablespoon, approximately 40 servings)

• Calories —————— 40 kcal
• Total Fat —————— 0 g
• Cholesterol ————— 0 mg
• Sodium ——————– 0 mg
• Total Carbohydrates — 10 g
• Protein ——————— 0 g
• Sugar ———————— 9 g
• Fiber ———————— 0.5 g

Note: These values are approximate and may vary depending on the ingredients used and portion size.