Are you ready to capture the sweet essence of summer in a jar? This Amish Strawberry Jam recipe is incredibly easy, requiring minimal ingredients and even less fuss. It’s the perfect way to preserve the vibrant flavor of fresh strawberries, creating a delicious spread for your morning toast or a delightful addition to your favorite desserts. This recipe is a testament to the simple elegance of homemade cooking, resulting in a jam that’s both healthy and irresistibly delicious. It's a fantastic addition to your collection of quick dinner ideas and healthy meals, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 (1-ounce) pouch liquid pectin
Equipment:
- Large, heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Canning jars and lids (half-pint or pint jars recommended)
- Jar lifter (optional, but highly recommended!)
- Large bowl for sterilizing jars
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare Your Jars
Before you start cooking, sterilize your jars and lids. You can do this by washing them thoroughly in hot, soapy water, then placing them in a large pot and covering them with boiling water for at least 10 minutes. This helps prevent spoilage and ensures your jam stays fresh for longer.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your large pot, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Gently stir to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Add Pectin and Bring to a Boil
Add the liquid pectin to the strawberry mixture. Stir vigorously for one full minute, ensuring the pectin is fully incorporated. Bring the mixture to a full rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, stirring constantly.
Step 4: Boil for One Minute
Once the mixture reaches a full rolling boil, continue to boil hard for exactly one minute, stirring constantly to prevent scorching. This is crucial for setting the jam properly.
Step 5: Remove from Heat and Skim
Remove the pot from the heat and skim off any foam that has formed on the surface.
Step 6: Fill and Seal Jars
Carefully ladle the hot jam into your sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars clean, place the lids and rings on tightly, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (for half-pint jars) or 15 minutes (for pint jars). This ensures a proper seal and prevents spoilage.
Step 7: Cool and Check Seals
Remove the jars from the boiling water bath and let them cool completely. You should hear a "pop" sound as the jars seal. Check to make sure all jars have sealed properly; if any haven't, store those jars in the refrigerator and consume the jam within a few weeks.
Tips for the Best Amish Strawberry Jam:
- Use ripe, but not overripe, strawberries for the best flavor and jam consistency.
- Freshly squeezed lemon juice is recommended for its superior flavor and acidity, which helps in setting the jam.
- Don’t skip the one-minute boil – it’s essential for the jam to set correctly.
- If you prefer a chunkier jam, you can coarsely chop the strawberries instead of slicing them thinly.
Variations:
- Spicy Strawberry Jam: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few slices of jalapeño to the mixture for a kick.
- Strawberry Basil Jam: Incorporate a few fresh basil leaves during the boiling process for an herbaceous twist.
- Strawberry Rhubarb Jam: Combine strawberries with rhubarb for a delicious tart and sweet jam.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 100-120 calories per 2 tablespoons. Note that this will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. For precise nutritional information, use a nutrition calculator based on your exact ingredients.
This Amish Strawberry Jam recipe is a wonderful way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. It's a simple, rewarding, and delicious recipe that's perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. It's a recipe that embodies the best aspects of homemade cooking, offering a delicious and healthy treat. Enjoy!