Strawberry Jam
Do you fancy a delicious homemade jam? Look no further! Our strawberry jam recipe is perfect for you. Full of sweet and tangy flavors of British strawberries, it’s sure to become your new favorite spread. Making your own jam has never been easier, and the results are totally worth it. Spread generously on toast and scones, or even use it in your favorite baking recipes. Treat yourself to the delicious taste of fresh strawberries and enrich your culinary creations with this delicious jam.
Ingredients
- 1.8kg small whole strawberries
- Juice of 3 lemons
- 1.84 kg preserving sugar (not to be confused with preserving sugar)
- piece of butter
Tip
Our downloadable labels
Download our printable canning labels – perfect for writing cooking notes and gift messages. You can find them Here.
Preparation steps
- Wash, drain and peel the fruit and place in a large, non-metallic bowl.
- Sprinkle lemon juice and sugar over it and mix gently.
- Cover with a tea towel and leave overnight. (This will keep the strawberries whole.)
- Place a saucer in the freezer.
- Place the fruit and juice in a canner or heavy-bottomed 4.5-quart saucepan.
- Heat gently, stirring, to dissolve the sugar. Do not cook until done.
- Increase the heat and then let it boil vigorously for exactly 4 minutes (use a timer).
- Remove from heat to test the setting point.
- Put some jam on the cold saucer.
- After a few minutes, gently push your finger through the jam and if the surface wrinkles, it is ready.
- If not, let it cook again for two minutes and then test again.
- Remove from the heat and stir in the butter.
- If the foam does not dissolve, skim it off with a slotted spoon.
- Let cool for 10-15 minutes. (Pot if it’s too hot and all the fruit rises to the top.)
- Stir gently to distribute the fruit, then pour into warm, sterilized jars.
- Immediately place wax disks, cover with lids or cellophane circles, seal jars, label them, and wipe them clean.
- Store in a cool, dry cupboard for 6 months.
Nutritional Information
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbohydrates | Sugar | fiber | protein | Salt |
| 39 | 1g | 0g | 10g | 10g | 1g | 1g | 0g |
Equipment and tools
To prepare strawberry jam you will need the following equipment and tools:
- Big pot
- wooden spoon
- Jam thermometer
- Mason jars with lids
- Canning funnel
- Canning tongs
Allergen information
This strawberry jam recipe does not contain common allergens such as nuts, dairy or gluten. However, it is always recommended to check the labels of your individual ingredients to ensure they are allergen-free if you or someone you are making the jam for suffers from allergies or dietary restrictions.
Storage and leftovers
Once your strawberry jam is made and cooled, it can be stored in airtight, sterilized jars. It is important to seal the jars properly so that the jam stays fresh. Store the jars in a cool, dark place such as a pantry or closet. Strawberry jam will last up to a year, but for the best flavor it is best to use it within six months.
If you have leftovers, store them in a covered container in the refrigerator. The jam will keep for several weeks in the refrigerator. Make sure you use a clean utensil to remove the jam to avoid contamination.
Health Benefits of Strawberry Jam
Not only is strawberry jam a delicious spread for toast or scones, but it also offers several health benefits. Packed with fresh strawberries and natural ingredients, this sweet treat can be enjoyed guilt-free. Here are some of the top health benefits of strawberry jam:
1. Rich in essential vitamins
Strawberries, the main ingredient in strawberry jam, are a rich source of essential vitamins such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin K and several B vitamins. Vitamin C is known for its immune-boosting properties, while vitamin A supports vision and skin health. Vitamin K plays a crucial role in blood clotting and the B vitamins help convert food into energy.
2. Rich in antioxidants
Strawberries are packed with powerful antioxidants that help fight off harmful free radicals in the body. These antioxidants, such as anthocyanins and ellagic acid, have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer and neurodegenerative diseases.
3. Good source of fiber
Fiber is an essential nutrient for a healthy digestive system. Strawberry jam contains a significant amount of fiber, which aids digestion, prevents constipation and promotes satiety. Including fiber in your diet can also help control blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
4. Supports skin health
Strawberries are known for their skin-care properties. They contain antioxidants that help neutralize skin-damaging free radicals and promote a healthy complexion. Additionally, the vitamin C in strawberries plays an important role in collagen formation, which keeps skin firm and youthful.
5. Boosts mood and cognitive functions
Consuming strawberry jam can have positive effects on mood and cognitive function. The antioxidants found in strawberries help reduce inflammation in the brain and improve communication between brain cells. This can improve memory, concentration and overall brain health.
Although strawberry jam offers numerous health benefits, it is important to consume it in moderation as it contains added sugar. Opt for homemade versions with natural sweeteners or enjoy it as an occasional treat. Remember that balance and moderation are key to maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
