Savor the Best Strawberry Preserves Today!

strawberry preserves

Want to enjoy summer’s flavor all year? Homemade strawberry preserves are your answer. Made with ripe, sweet strawberries, they bring a flavor burst with every bite.

Whether you’re into the classic taste or organic varieties, these preserves are perfect. Imagine them on warm toast, desserts, or even straight from the jar.

We’ll dive into different recipes in this article. We’ll cover Sure Jell strawberry jam, a classic, and an old-fashioned recipe. There’s even strawberry fig jam for those seeking something new. Get ready for the best strawberry preserves you’ve ever tasted!

Key Takeaways:

  • Homemade strawberry preserves capture the natural sweetness and vibrant color of ripe strawberries.
  • There are various recipes to choose from, including the classic Sure Jell strawberry jam and an old-fashioned Grandma-style version.
  • For an adventurous twist, try making strawberry fig jam for a unique flavor combination.
  • Store your preserves in the pantry, refrigerator, or freezer, depending on your preference.
  • Making your own strawberry preserves allows you to enjoy the taste of summer all year round!

Strawberry Jam with Pectin

This recipe lets you enjoy the real taste of fresh strawberries, made simple with Sure Jell. Adding pectin means your jam will set just right, bursting with the vibrant flavor of strawberries. It’s perfect on warm toast or as a tasty glaze for desserts.

Pectin is the secret to perfect jam consistency and texture. It helps the jam firm up, for that jelly-like feel we all adore. This recipe will help you make a strawberry jam that’s not too thin or too thick.

“Pectin is key for that ideal jam consistency and texture.”

You can make incredible strawberry jam in a few easy steps. It brings summer’s taste and vibrant color to your table. The scent and look of it will take you back to picking strawberries under the sun.

So, find your best strawberries and get your ingredients ready. We’re about to make a delicious Strawberry Jam with pectin. This jam will be a hit in your kitchen.

Making Strawberry Jam with Pectin: Step-by-Step Guide

  1. Gather these items:
  • 2 pounds of fresh strawberries
  • 4 cups of granulated sugar
  • 1 package of Sure Jell fruit pectin
  • 1/4 cup of lemon juice
  • Clean the strawberries, removing stems and bad parts. Crush them for your jam’s texture.
  • Mix strawberries, sugar, pectin, and lemon juice in a deep saucepan. Stir well.
  • Heat the mix until it boils. Keep stirring to avoid sticking.
  • Boil for 1 minute, stirring all the time.
  • Take off heat, remove any foam on top.
  • Fill jars with jam, leaving space at the top. Close them securely.
  • Boil jars in a canner for 10 minutes. This seals them.
  • Let jars cool. Press the lid to check the seal. It shouldn’t move if sealed.
  • Store in a cool, dark place. Best flavor after 24 hours.
  • You’ve made Strawberry Jam with pectin! Spread it on toast, stir into yoghurt, or use in desserts. Enjoy your homemade jam in so many ways.

    Jam Type Taste Level Texture Uses
    Strawberry Jam with Pectin Sweet and tangy Smooth and spreadable Toast, pastries, yogurt
    Old-Fashioned Strawberry Jam Naturally sweet Chunky and rustic PB&J sandwiches, thumbprint cookies
    Strawberry Fig Jam Complex and fruity Smooth with fig seeds Cheese pairing, charcuterie board

    Congratulations on making Strawberry Jam with pectin! Enjoy it on baked treats, or share with loved ones. This homemade jam’s taste and color will wow everyone!

    Old Fashioned Recipe Like Grandma Made

    Strawberries are one of my top fruits. Their bright color and sweet smell bring back lovely memories of summers in my grandma’s kitchen. I’m excited to share an old fashioned strawberry jam recipe with you.

    “This homemade jam tastes like what my dear grandma used to make. The sweet strawberries, cooked perfectly, bring summer into a jar.”

    This recipe is all about love and simplicity. Its chunky texture and perfect sweetness will delight you. Enjoy it on toast, in a cake, or by the spoonful. This jam takes you back to simpler times.

    Rediscovering Tradition Through Flavor

    Recreating traditional recipes has its own magic. Each bite is filled with nostalgia and history. As you make this strawberry jam, enjoy the process of preserving long-loved flavors. Ripe strawberries, sweet yet tart, will remind you of when fruit was freshly picked and jams were made with love.

    Ingredients

    • Fresh strawberries
    • Granulated sugar
    • Fresh lemon juice

    Instructions

    1. Wash the strawberries and remove the stems. Cut into small pieces or lightly mash for chunky jam.
    2. Mix strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a pot. Let it sit for 10 minutes to let the sugar dissolve and strawberries juice out.
    3. Over medium heat, bring the mix to a boil. Keep stirring to avoid burning.
    4. Once it boils, lower the heat. Simmer for about 30 minutes until it thickens. Remove any foam on top.
    5. Take the pot off the heat. Let the jam cool off a bit.
    6. Put the jam into sterilized jars, leaving some space at the top. Seal them well and process in a hot water bath for 10 minutes.
    7. Let the jars cool completely. Then store them in a cool, dark place.

    Now, admire your homemade jam. Each jar is a nod to the tradition of flavor preservation and the happiness home cooking brings. From the first to the last bite, cherish this delicious spread that honors grandmothers’ legacies.

    Fresh or Frozen Strawberries for Jam

    Making strawberry jam gives you two choices: fresh or frozen strawberries. This recipe works best with fresh strawberries. But, if you have frozen strawberries, they’re also fine to use.

    Fresh strawberries make your jam taste bright and sweet. The best ripe berries come in summer. That’s the perfect time to make your own jam.

    If you pick frozen strawberries, remember a couple of things. Thaw the strawberries before you use them. This helps them blend well and gives your jam the right texture.

    There’s a caution for frozen strawberries though. When making a big batch, the extra water from frozen berries might stop the jam from setting right. If you’re not sure about the jam’s thickness, try making a small batch first.

    To learn more about using frozen fruits in jam, check the National Center for Home Food Preservation. They have plenty of useful information.

    Whether you choose fresh or frozen, you’ll end up with a tasty batch of strawberry jam. Enjoy it on toast, scones, or in your favorite desserts.

    Pros and Cons of Fresh and Frozen Strawberries

    Advantages Fresh Strawberries Frozen Strawberries
    Convenience Readily available during the summer months Can be stored and used year-round
    Flavor Intense and vibrant Retains some of the original flavor
    Texture Firm texture that holds its shape Softer texture due to freezing
    Moisture Content Naturally drier, less moisture in the jam Additional moisture can affect setting process
    Availability Seasonal availability Can be purchased year-round

    Classic Sure Jell Strawberry Jam

    The classic Sure-Jell strawberry jam recipe is always a hit. It bursts with vibrant taste and has the perfect consistency. If you follow a few easy steps and use the right tools, you’ll make delicious strawberry jam. Everyone will want some more.

    Let’s celebrate the joy of this sweet treat. Picture smearing thick, classic strawberry jam on a warm, toasted English muffin. The ripe strawberry flavors explode in your mouth. It’s an amazing start to your day or a sweet addition to desserts.

    “Strawberry jam is like summer in a jar. Its bright, bold flavors capture the essence of the season and bring joy to every bite.” – Jam Lover

    It’s time to make your own Sure-Jell strawberry jam. Here’s what you need:

    • Fresh, ripe strawberries – 4 cups
    • Granulated sugar – 7 cups
    • Sure-Jell fruit pectin – 1 box
    • Lemon juice – 2 tablespoons

    Let’s start making jam with these ingredients.

    Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

    First, wash the strawberries and take off the stems. Dry them well, then chop or crush them the way you like. You can make your jam chunky or smooth. It’s your choice!

    Step 2: Sterilize Your Jars

    Before cooking the jam, clean your jars well and sterilize them. Wash with hot, soapy water, rinse, then boil them for 10 minutes. Take the jars out of the water and let them cool down.

    Step 3: Cook the Strawberry Jam

    Now it’s time to cook. Put the strawberries, sugar, Sure-Jell, and lemon juice in a large pot. Stir on medium-high heat until it boils. Keep stirring for 1 minute when it’s boiling.

    Step 4: Fill and Seal the Jars

    Take the pot off the heat. Remove any foam on the jam’s surface. Pour the hot jam into your jars, leaving a little space at the top. Clean the jar rims, then put the lids on and tighten.

    Step 5: Process the Jars

    Now, it’s time to seal the jars. Put them in a canner pot of boiling water. Make sure they’re completely covered with water. Boil them for 10 minutes. This will seal the jars properly.

    After boiling, take the jars out and let them cool on a towel. You might hear a “pop” when the lids seal. This means your strawberry jam is ready to eat!

    You’ve made beautiful Sure-Jell strawberry jam. It’s full of sweet, fruity flavor that will make any meal better.

    This recipe is simple but amazing. With a few ingredients and some effort, you can enjoy summer flavors all year. So, spread your homemade jam on toast and enjoy!

    Tools for Making Strawberry Jam

    To make tasty strawberry jam, you need some key tools for sterilization and filling. These tools make sure your jam-making goes smoothly and successfully.

    Canner Pot

    A canner pot with a removable jar rack is vital for strawberry jam. It’s used for sterilizing jars and sealing them right. This pot makes sure jars get heated evenly during canning.

    Canning Tongs

    Canning tongs are made for safely handling hot jars. They have long handles and grips for a secure hold. With these tongs, you can easily move jars in and out of boiling water without getting burned.

    Jar Lifter

    A jar lifter is crucial for handling hot jars safely. It gives you a firm grip, so you can lift and move jars easily. This tool keeps your hands safe from the heat, reducing burn risks.

    Canning Funnel

    A canning funnel helps fill jars with jam without making a mess. It’s wide-mouthed for easy use. This funnel makes sure the jam goes into the jars neatly and keeps the rims clean for a good seal.

    Having a canner pot, canning tongs, jar lifter, and canning funnel makes jam making simpler. You can find these tools at stores or online. So, get your tools ready, and start making delicious homemade strawberry jam!

    Tool Description
    Canner Pot A large pot with a removable jar rack used for sterilizing jars and sealing them properly.
    Canning Tongs Long-handled tongs with gripping ends to safely handle hot jars during the canning process.
    Jar Lifter A tool with a sturdy grip for safely lifting and moving hot jars.
    Canning Funnel A wide-mouthed funnel designed for filling jars without spills or mess.

    How to Make Sure Jell Strawberry Jam

    Making strawberry jam with Sure-Jell means it’s full of flavor and sets just right. By following a few steps, you can make homemade jam that will wow everyone. This jam is both tasty and impressive.

    Gather Your Ingredients and Equipment

    First, collect everything you need for your jam. You’ll need fresh strawberries, sugar, Sure-Jell fruit pectin, and lemon juice. These are your main ingredients.

    Tip: Choosing ripe strawberries will ensure the best flavor in your jam.

    You’ll also need jars, a canner pot, a canning funnel, and tools to handle hot jars. These tools are essential for making jam.

    Prepare the Jars and Strawberries

    Start by washing and sterilizing your jars. It’s important to make sure they’re completely clean. Also, boil the lids for a few minutes to sterilize them.

    Next, get the strawberries ready by washing them well and removing the stems. You can chop or crush them, depending on how you like your jam’s texture.

    Follow the Sure-Jell Recipe

    The Sure-Jell box has a great recipe for strawberry jam. Carefully follow it. Mix the strawberries, pectin, lemon juice, and sugar in a big pot. Keep stirring on medium-high heat until it boils hard.

    Tip: Using a wide pot will help the mixture boil and reduce faster.

    Once it’s boiling hard, stir and boil for one more minute. Then, take the pot off the heat and remove any foam on top.

    Fill the Jars with the Jam

    Now, fill your jars with the hot jam mixture. Use a funnel to do this. Leave about ¼ inch space at the top of each jar.

    Tip: Wipe the rim of each jar clean before placing the lids on to ensure a proper seal.

    Process the Jars

    It’s time to seal the jars. Put them in a canner pot with boiling water. The water should cover them by at least 1 inch. Follow the Sure-Jell recipe for how long to boil them.

    Jar Size Processing Time
    Half-Pint 5 minutes
    Pint 10 minutes
    Quart 15 minutes

    After boiling, use tongs to remove the jars and let them cool on a towel. You’ll know they’re sealed when you hear the lids pop. This sound means your jam is preserved safely.

    Your homemade Sure-Jell strawberry jam is now ready. Store it in your pantry or give some to friends. Now you can enjoy the sweet taste of summer anytime!

    What is Sure-Jell?

    Sure-Jell is a well-loved fruit pectin brand for homemade jams and jellies. It’s a natural carb found in fruits that makes jams and jellies firm. It’s great for fruits low in natural pectin, ensuring consistent results.

    Why Use Sure-Jell in Homemade Jams and Jellies?

    Making homemade jams and jellies? Sure-Jell is a reliable choice. It offers high-quality fruit pectin. This means your jams and jellies set just right, being smooth and easy to spread.

    It shines with fruits like strawberries, which have less pectin. Adding Sure-Jell makes sure your strawberry jam is perfect. It locks in the fruit’s full taste.

    Using Sure-Jell in homemade jams and jellies is like having a secret ingredient that guarantees success.

    Sure-Jell is great for new and experienced jam makers. It’s easy to use and always works well, making it a top pick for home canning lovers.

    Expert Tip: Testing for Gel

    To check if your jam or jelly is set, do a gel test. Drop a little hot mix on a cold plate. If it gels after a few minutes, it’s ready. If not, cook more and test again.

    Homemade Jams and Jellies with Sure-Jell – A Flavorful Adventure

    With Sure-Jell, make delicious jams and jellies from many fruits. Try making classic strawberry jam, tangy grape jelly, or mixed berry preserve. Sure-Jell ensures the perfect set every time, letting you enjoy the fruit’s true flavor.

    Comparing Sure-Jell and Other Fruit Pectin Brands

    Brand Consistency Performance Taste
    Sure-Jell Smooth and spreadable Reliable and consistent Preserves natural fruit flavor
    Brand X Variable Inconsistent Artificial aftertaste
    Brand Y Grainy Unpredictable Overpowering sweetness
    Brand Z Runny Poor gelling Loss of fruit flavor

    This table compares Sure-Jell to other pectin brands. Sure-Jell stands out with its smooth texture, reliable gelling, and natural fruit taste. Other brands may have issues with consistency, predictability, and flavor.

    Homemade Strawberry Fig Jam

    Looking for a special flavor mix? Try Homemade Strawberry Fig Jam. It blends fresh strawberries and ripe figs. This jam is full of natural sweetness and a taste you’ll love. Forget store jams with fake stuff. Welcome a homemade delight for picky eaters.

    Ingredients:

    • 2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
    • 1 cup fresh figs, stems removed and chopped
    • 2 cups granulated sugar
    • Juice of 1 lemon

    Instructions:

    1. In a large saucepan, combine the strawberries, figs, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine and let sit for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
    2. Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the jam thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
    3. While the jam is still hot, carefully transfer it into clean, sterilized jars, leaving a ¼-inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth and seal with the lids.
    4. Process the jars in a water bath canner for 10 minutes to ensure a proper seal. Remove the jars from the canner and let cool completely before storing.

    “Homemade Strawberry Fig Jam is like summer in a jar. The mix of strawberries and figs is perfect. It makes your taste buds happy. Enjoy it on toast or with cheese for a great taste.”

    Enjoy it on a Sunday morning or give it as a sweet gift. Homemade Strawberry Fig Jam will make anyone happy. It’s the joy of making your own preserves. Dive into the great taste of this amazing jam.

    How to Store Strawberry Fig Jam

    After making homemade strawberry fig jam, storing it right is key. This keeps its taste and freshness intact. Here are two ways to store your tasty jam:

    Pantry Storage

    For pantry storage, use the water bath method to seal the jars. This stops spoilage. Follow these simple steps:

    1. Bring water to a boil in a canner pot.
    2. Put filled jam jars into the canning rack and lower them into the boiling water.
    3. Boil the jars for 10-15 minutes, as your recipe says.
    4. After boiling, take the jars out and cool them on a towel.
    5. Check if the jars are sealed by listening for a “pop” as they cool.
    6. Keep the sealed jars in a cool, dark pantry away from sunlight.

    This method lets your jam stay good for up to a year.

    Refrigerator Storage

    For shorter storage, refrigerate your jam. Just do the following:

    1. Let the jam cool after making it.
    2. Move the jam into clean, sealed jars or containers.
    3. Put the jars in the fridge.

    Refrigerated jam lasts for a few weeks. Remember to mark the jars with the making date.

    Keeping your strawberry fig jam fresh and tasty is vital. Whether you use pantry storage for long keeping or the fridge for quick use, stick to these steps. They help extend your jam’s life.

    Conclusion

    Making your own strawberry preserves is a special delight. Whether you stick to the classic Sure-Jell recipe or mix it up with strawberry and fig, it means enjoying strawberry sweetness year-round. All you need are some simple tools and ingredients to enjoy amazing preserves today!

    Choose between the reliable yellow Sure-Jell box recipe or a traditional one from grandma, and make delicious jam. The essence of summer is locked in every jar with the vibrant colors and freshness of ripe strawberries. Sure-Jell fruit pectin makes getting the perfect jam consistency easier than ever.

    Making jam with fresh or frozen strawberries is a rewarding process. Every step, from sterilizing jars to filling them with jam, brings excitement. After sealing your jars, you get to taste summer in every spread. Start making your strawberry preserves now and add that fruity sweetness to your morning!

    FAQ

    What is the difference between strawberry preserves and strawberry jam?

    Strawberry preserves have big chunks or whole fruit. Jam is smoother and spreads easily.

    Can I make homemade strawberry preserves using organic strawberries?

    Yes! Organic strawberries are great for making healthy, eco-friendly homemade preserves.

    What makes the best strawberry preserves?

    Fresh, ripe strawberries and the perfect sweetness make the best preserves. You can also make low sugar ones for a healthier option.

    Can I make small batch strawberry preserves?

    Sure, small batch preserves are perfect for trying new flavors or when you have just a few strawberries.

    Are homemade strawberry preserves considered artisanal?

    Definitely. If you make small batches with quality ingredients and care, they’re artisanal.

    Can I use frozen strawberries to make strawberry jam?

    Yes, frozen strawberries work for jam. Just don’t double the batch to ensure it sets right.

    What is the tried and true recipe for strawberry jam?

    Look for the tried and true recipe on the yellow Sure-Jell box; it never fails.

    What tools do I need to make strawberry jam?

    You’ll need a canner pot, jar rack, canning tongs, jar lifter, funnel, lids, and jars for making and storing jam.

    How do I make Sure Jell strawberry jam?

    Gather the ingredients and follow the Sure-Jell box recipe. Fill jars with jam and process in boiling water to seal.

    What is Sure-Jell and how does it help with homemade jams and jellies?

    Sure-Jell is fruit pectin for jams and jellies. It helps them set, ensuring a consistent texture, especially in low-pectin fruits.

    How do I make homemade strawberry fig jam?

    Combine fresh strawberries and figs for this divine jam. Follow a simple guide to make it at home.

    How should I store strawberry fig jam?

    After making strawberry fig jam, store it in the pantry, fridge, or freezer. Each method has specific instructions to follow.

    Source Links

    Scroll to Top