Homemade Strawberry Jam Recipe: A Sweet and Simple in 2024

Introduction

There’s nothing quite like the taste of homemade strawberry jam recipe. The sweet, fruity flavor and the satisfaction of creating something delicious from scratch make it a beloved treat for many. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the process of making your own strawberry jam, step by step. With just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time, you’ll be spreading your very own jam on toast in no time!

How to Make Strawberry Jam Recipe

Ingredients and Directions

Strawberry Jam Recipe

Course: CondimentCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

20

minutes

Calories

50

kcal

To make this delightful strawberry jam, you’ll need:

Ingredients

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped

• 4 cups granulated sugar

• 1/4 cup lemon juice

Directions

• In a large, heavy-bottomed pot, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine and let the mixture sit for about 30 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
• Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. As the jam cooks, use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash the strawberries, releasing more of their natural pectin.
• Continue cooking the jam, stirring constantly to prevent scorching, until it reaches the desired consistency. This typically takes about 20-25 minutes. To test the jam’s readiness, place a small amount on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
• Remove the pot from the heat and let the jam cool for a few minutes. Skim off any foam that may have formed on the surface.
• Carefully ladle the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth and secure the lids tightly.
• Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.

Preparation

1. Sterilize your jars and lids: Before you begin, make sure to sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. This step is crucial to ensure your jam stays fresh and free from bacteria.
2. Prepare the strawberries: Rinse the strawberries thoroughly, remove the stems, and chop them into small pieces. If you prefer a smoother jam, you can mash the strawberries with a potato masher or pulse them in a food processor.
3. Combine ingredients: In a large pot, mix the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Bring to a boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly. Boil for one minute.
5. Add pectin: Stir in the powdered fruit pectin and continue to boil for another minute, stirring constantly. Remove the pot from the heat.

Canning Process

1. Fill the jars: Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any spills.
2. Seal the jars: Place the lids on the jars and screw on the bands until they are fingertip-tight.
3. Process the jars: Place the jars in a boiling water bath canner, ensuring they are covered by at least an inch of water. Boil for 10 minutes, then remove the jars from the canner and let them cool on a towel or rack.
4. Check the seals: After 24 hours, check the seals on the jars. The lids should be concave and not flex when pressed. If any jars haven’t sealed properly, refrigerate them and use them first.

Serving Suggestions

Your homemade strawberry jam is perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or scones. It also makes a delicious addition to yogurt, oatmeal, or as a filling for cakes and pastries. Get creative and experiment with different ways to enjoy your sweet creation!

Variations Strawberry Jam Recipe

• Low-sugar jam: If you prefer a less sweet jam, you can reduce the amount of sugar in the recipe. However, keep in mind that sugar helps the jam set and acts as a preservative, so your low-sugar jam may have a softer consistency and a shorter shelf life.
• Strawberry-vanilla jam: For a delightful twist, add a split vanilla bean or 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract to the jam mixture before boiling.
• Strawberry-balsamic jam: Stir in 1 tablespoon of balsamic vinegar for a more complex, grown-up flavor.

Selecting the Perfect Strawberries:

When making strawberry jam recpe, the quality of your fruit is paramount. Choose fresh, ripe strawberries that are deeply red, plump, and fragrant. Avoid berries that are overly soft, mushy, or have visible signs of mold. If possible, visit your local farmers’ market or pick your own strawberries at a nearby farm for the freshest and most flavorful results.

Remember, the better the strawberries, the more delicious your jam will be. Take the time to carefully select each berry, ensuring that you have the best possible ingredients for your homemade creation.

The Art of Canning:

Canning is a time-honored tradition that allows you to preserve the flavors of the season and enjoy your homemade strawberry jam throughout the year. To ensure the safety and longevity of your jam, it’s essential to follow proper canning procedures. Start by sterilizing your jars and lids in boiling water. This step eliminates any bacteria and creates a clean environment for your jam.

When filling the jars, use a funnel to prevent spills and leave the appropriate amount of headspace to allow for expansion during the boiling water bath. After sealing the jars, process them in the boiling water bath for the recommended time to create an airtight seal. With proper canning techniques, your strawberry jam will remain fresh and delicious for months to come.

Serving Suggestions:

Homemade strawberry jam is a versatile condiment that can elevate a wide range of dishes. Spread it on a slice of warm, buttered toast for a classic breakfast treat, or use it as a filling for thumbprint cookies and jam-filled pastries. For a more indulgent dessert, swirl the jam into homemade ice cream or use it as a topping for cheesecake.

Strawberry jam also pairs beautifully with savory dishes, such as baked brie or as a glaze for roasted meats. Get creative and experiment with different pairings to discover new flavor combinations. Whether enjoyed on its own or as a complement to other dishes, your homemade strawberry jam is sure to impress and delight.

Conclusion

Making your own strawberry jam recipe is a rewarding experience that allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavor to your liking. With this simple recipe, you’ll be able to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. So, gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to create a batch of delicious homemade strawberry jam recipe that will impress your family and friends!