Are you ready to transform sun-ripened strawberries into a jar of sunshine? This Sure-Jell strawberry jam recipe is the perfect blend of ease and deliciousness, guaranteeing a homemade taste that'll leave you craving more. Forget store-bought jams filled with added sugars and preservatives; this recipe offers a simple, healthy, and incredibly flavorful alternative. It's a fantastic addition to your breakfast routine, perfect for spreading on toast, biscuits, or even enjoying by the spoonful! Let's get started on this quick dinner idea that's also a fantastic addition to your pantry.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups crushed strawberries (about 2 lbs fresh strawberries)
- 7 cups granulated sugar
- 1 box Sure-Jell fruit pectin (1 ¾ oz)
- ½ cup water
- 7 half-pint canning jars and lids
Instructions:
Preparing the Strawberries:
- Wash and hull the strawberries thoroughly.
- Roughly chop the strawberries and then crush them using a potato masher or food processor until you reach your desired consistency. Leave some larger chunks if you prefer a chunky jam.
Making the Jam:
- In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the crushed strawberries, sugar, and water. Stir well to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.
- Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, stirring constantly. A rolling boil means a boil that cannot be stirred down.
- Once at a rolling boil, add the Sure-Jell pectin. Stir vigorously for one minute. This is crucial for proper gelling.
- Continue boiling hard for exactly one minute, stirring constantly. Use a timer for accurate results.
- Remove from heat and skim off any foam that might have formed on the surface.
Canning the Jam:
- While the jam is boiling, sterilize your jars and lids by boiling them in water for 10 minutes. This prevents spoilage and ensures a longer shelf life.
- Carefully ladle the hot jam into the sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of headspace at the top.
- Wipe the rims of the jars clean with a damp cloth. Place the lids and rings on the jars and tighten them fingertip-tight. Don't overtighten.
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. Ensure the jars are completely submerged in water.
- Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely. You should hear a satisfying "pop" sound as the jars seal.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Jam:
- Use ripe strawberries: The flavor of your jam will be directly affected by the quality of your strawberries. Choose ripe, flavorful berries for the best results.
- Don't skip the stirring: Consistent stirring is crucial throughout the entire process, especially when adding the pectin and during the one-minute boil. This prevents burning and ensures even gelling.
- Check for sealing: After the jars have cooled, press down on the center of each lid. If it doesn't flex, your jar is sealed.
Variations:
- Lemon zest: Add a teaspoon of lemon zest for a bright, citrusy twist.
- Spices: A pinch of cinnamon or cardamom can add warmth and complexity.
- Other berries: This recipe works well with other berries like raspberries or blueberries.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary based on serving size and specific ingredients. Please consult a nutrition calculator for precise values.
This homemade strawberry jam is not only delicious but also a rewarding culinary experience. Making jam is a great way to connect with your food and create something special. Enjoy the sweet taste of summer, preserved in a jar!