Matthew
Imagine starting your day with a piece of warm toast generously spread with fresh, homemade strawberry jam.
This easy recipe will enable you to create your own delicious jam from scratch, using only a few simple ingredients.
Not only will your family be impressed, but you’ll also have the satisfaction of knowing exactly what’s in your food.
So, let’s get started and elevate your breakfast game with this mouthwatering homemade strawberry jam!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 3 cups
Ingredients
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and halved
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract (if using). Stir to combine.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar has dissolved and the strawberries have released their juices.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the jam has thickened, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- While the jam is cooking, prepare your jars by washing them in hot, soapy water and then rinsing thoroughly. Place the jars and lids in a large pot of boiling water for 10 minutes to sterilize, then remove and let them air dry.
- Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, carefully ladle it into the prepared jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any residue, then place the lids on top and tighten the bands.
- Allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature before storing in a cool, dark place.
Tips and Tricks
- For a smoother jam, you can puree the strawberries in a blender or food processor before cooking.
- If you prefer a chunkier texture, you can mash the strawberries with a potato masher or fork while they cook.
- To test if the jam has reached the proper consistency, place a small plate in the freezer while the jam is cooking. Spoon a small amount of jam onto the cold plate and return it to the freezer for a minute. If the jam thickens and holds its shape when pushed with a finger, it’s ready.
Nutritional Information (per tablespoon)
| Calories | Fat | Carbohydrates | Sugar | Protein |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 45 | 0g | 11g | 11g | 0g |
Substitution Options
- Try using honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a different flavor profile.
- For a sugar-free option, consider using a sugar substitute such as Stevia or Erythritol.
- You can also substitute other berries, like raspberries or blackberries, for a different type of jam.
Wine or Beverage Pairings
Enjoy your homemade strawberry jam with a cup of herbal tea or a glass of freshly squeezed orange juice.
