Strawberry Jam Recipe

Mak Erot

3 min read

·

Apr 01, 2025

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Strawberry Jam Recipe: A Sweet and Simple Guide

Are you ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of homemade preserves? This strawberry jam recipe is perfect for beginners and seasoned jam-makers alike. It's a simple yet rewarding project that will leave your kitchen smelling heavenly and your taste buds singing. Let's get started!

Ingredients You'll Need:

This recipe yields approximately 4-5 half-pint jars of strawberry jam. Adjust quantities accordingly if you want to make more (or less!).

• 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced (about 1 pound) — Choose ripe, flavorful strawberries for the best results.
• 3 cups granulated sugar — The sugar helps to set the jam and acts as a preservative.
• 1/4 cup lemon juice — Lemon juice adds a touch of acidity that balances the sweetness and helps with setting.
• 1 pouch liquid pectin (optional, but recommended) — Pectin is a natural setting agent that ensures your jam has the perfect consistency. You can find it at most grocery stores in the canning aisle.

Equipment You'll Need:

• Large saucepan: For cooking the jam.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring the jam.
• Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements.
• Canning jars and lids: Make sure your jars and lids are sterilized before use. This is crucial for safe preservation.
• Jar lifter: A helpful tool for handling hot jars.
• Water bath canner (optional): For water bath canning, which extends the shelf life of your jam.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Preparing the Strawberries:

1. Hull and slice the strawberries. Remove the green tops and slice the strawberries into roughly 1/2-inch pieces. You don't need to be perfectly precise.
2. Measure the strawberries. Ensure you have exactly 4 cups of sliced strawberries.

Making the Jam:

1. Combine ingredients: In the large saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. If using pectin, follow the instructions on the package for adding it to the mixture.
2. Bring to a boil: Stir over medium heat until the sugar dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, which is a boil that cannot be stirred down.
3. Cook to setting point: Once at a rolling boil, continue to boil for 1 minute, stirring constantly. This is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
4. Remove from heat: Carefully remove the saucepan from the heat. Skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.

Canning the Jam (Optional, but Recommended):

1. Fill sterilized jars: Ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4-inch headspace at the top.
2. Remove air bubbles: Run a clean knife or spatula around the inside of the jar to release any trapped air bubbles.
3. Wipe jar rims: Clean the rims of the jars thoroughly to ensure a good seal.
4. Place lids and rings: Secure the lids and rings onto the jars.
5. Process in a water bath canner (optional): If you choose to water bath can your jam, follow the instructions provided with your canner. This process ensures the jam is shelf-stable for a longer period.

Tips for Strawberry Jam Success:

• Use ripe strawberries: The flavor of your jam will directly reflect the quality of your strawberries.
• Stir constantly: This prevents burning and ensures even cooking.
• Test for setting: If you're not using pectin, you can test for setting by placing a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed with a finger, it's ready.
• Properly sterilize jars: This is essential for food safety.

This strawberry jam recipe is a delightful way to preserve the taste of summer. Enjoy spreading your homemade goodness on toast, biscuits, or anything that strikes your fancy! Remember to always prioritize safety when canning. Happy jamming!