Freshest Strawberry Jam

Introduction

History

The history of strawberry jam dates back to the early 18th century when sugar became more readily available and affordable. The process of preserving fruit by cooking it with sugar was a way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. Today, strawberry jam remains a popular choice for homemade preserves.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to crush the strawberries completely to ensure a smooth jam consistency.

- Stir the pectin mixture into the strawberries quickly and continue stirring for 3 minutes to help the jam set properly.

- Store the jam in sterilized freezer jars or containers to maintain freshness.

Serving Suggestions

Enjoy this strawberry jam on toast, scones, or as a topping for yogurt or ice cream.

Cooking Techniques

The key cooking technique for this recipe is boiling the pectin mixture and stirring it into the strawberries to help the jam set properly.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have powdered pectin, you can use liquid pectin instead. Just follow the instructions on the package for substitution ratios.

Make Ahead Tips

This strawberry jam can be made ahead of time and stored in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Presentation Ideas

Serve this strawberry jam in a decorative jar or container for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

This strawberry jam pairs well with freshly baked bread, scones, or even as a topping for cheesecake.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store the strawberry jam in the freezer for long-term storage. If using within 2-3 weeks, store it in the refrigerator. To reheat, simply thaw the jam in the refrigerator overnight.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this strawberry jam contains approximately 50 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of this strawberry jam contains approximately 14 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This strawberry jam recipe is fat-free.

Proteins

There is less than 1 gram of protein per serving in this strawberry jam.

Vitamins and minerals

Strawberries are a good source of vitamin C, manganese, and folate.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as strawberries.

Summary

This strawberry jam is a sweet treat that is low in calories and fat, making it a guilt-free indulgence.

Summary

This recipe for the freshest strawberry jam is a simple and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a homemade jam that is perfect for breakfast or dessert.

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe for the first time is a happy one. It all started on a warm summer day when I was just a young girl, eager to learn all I could about the art of cooking. My mother had taken me to a farmers market where we stumbled upon the most beautiful strawberries I had ever seen. Their vibrant red color and sweet aroma drew me in immediately, and I knew I had to find a way to preserve their freshness for as long as possible.

As we walked through the market, my eyes landed on a small stall where an elderly woman was selling jars of homemade strawberry jam. The jars were lined up neatly on a wooden table, their labels handwritten with care. I approached the woman and asked her about the recipe she used to make the jam. She smiled kindly and beckoned me closer, her eyes twinkling with wisdom.

"Ah, my dear, you have stumbled upon a gem. This recipe has been in my family for generations, passed down from mother to daughter. Would you like me to share it with you?" she asked.

I nodded eagerly, my heart racing with excitement. The woman reached into her apron pocket and pulled out a worn piece of paper, its edges yellowed with age. She handed it to me with a gentle smile, and I clutched it tightly in my hands, knowing that I had just been given a precious gift.

That evening, I rushed home to show my mother the recipe I had been given. Together, we gathered the ripest strawberries we could find and set to work making our very first batch of strawberry jam. The kitchen was filled with the sweet scent of simmering fruit, and I felt a sense of pride as I stirred the pot, watching as the strawberries transformed into a thick, luscious jam.

After hours of cooking and stirring, the jam was finally ready. We poured it into jars and sealed them tightly, the lids popping with a satisfying sound. I couldn't wait to taste the fruit of our labor, so I spread a thick layer of jam on a freshly baked scone and took a bite.

The flavor was unlike anything I had ever tasted before – sweet and tangy, with a hint of summer sunshine in every bite. I closed my eyes and savored the moment, knowing that I had stumbled upon something truly special.

From that day on, making strawberry jam became a tradition in our family. I would spend hours in the kitchen, carefully selecting the ripest strawberries and following the recipe I had been given so many years ago. Over time, I made a few adjustments here and there, adding a touch of lemon juice for brightness and a sprinkle of cinnamon for warmth.

As the years passed, I shared the recipe with friends and neighbors, passing on the knowledge that had been given to me by that kind-hearted woman at the farmers market. And now, as I stand in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar scent of simmering strawberries, I can't help but feel grateful for the gift of that recipe – a gift that has brought me joy and memories for a lifetime.

Categories

| American Recipes | Strawberry Preserves And Jam Recipes |

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