Homemade Strawberry Jam
A delightful homemade strawberry jam that captures the essence of summer with fresh strawberries, perfect for spreading on toast or using in desserts.
Equipment
- large pot
- Canning jars
- Lids and bands
- potato masher
- measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon
- Cooling rack
Ingredients
- 2 pounds Fresh strawberries Ripe and juicy for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup Lemon juice Adds a zesty kick and helps preserve the jam.
- 1/4 teaspoon Salt Enhances the overall flavor of the jam.
- 4 cups Granulated sugar Essential for sweetness and helps the jam to set properly.
- 1 package (1.75 oz) Fruit pectin Crucial for thickening the jam.
Instructions
- Clean the strawberries thoroughly under cold water, hull them, and slice into smaller pieces.
- Measure out the lemon juice, salt, sugar, and fruit pectin.
- In a large pot, combine the mashed strawberries, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well.
- Gradually add the granulated sugar and fruit pectin, stirring continuously until dissolved.
- Place the pot over medium heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, stirring constantly for about 10-15 minutes.
- Test for doneness using the spoon test; if it holds its shape, it's ready to be canned.
- Sterilize canning jars and lids by boiling them for 10 minutes.
- Pour the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace, and wipe the rims clean.
- Seal the jars with sterilized lids and process in a boiling water bath for 5-10 minutes.
- Remove the jars and let them cool on a clean towel or cooling rack. Check seals before storing.
Notes
Enjoy your homemade strawberry jam on toast, pancakes, or in desserts. Experiment with adding other fruits for unique flavors!