strawberry preserves from scratch🍓
ingredients-
2 pounds fresh strawberries
4 cups granulated sugar
tablespoons fresh lemon juice
1 packet of pectin
1.prepare the strawberries:
hull and slice your strawberries, then place them in a large, heavy-bottomed pot.
2.mix the ingredients:
add the sugar and lemon juice to the pot with the strawberries. stir to combine and let it sit for about 15-30 minutes. this will help the strawberries release their juices and dissolve the sugar.
3.cook the preserves:
turn the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring frequently. as the mixture cooks, the strawberries will break down and the sugar will dissolve. if you’re using pectin, add it now and stir until combined.
4.simmer and thicken:
continue cooking the preserves for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. skim off any foam that forms on the surface. the mixture will start to thicken as it reduces. if you want chunkier preserves, mash some of the strawberries with a fork or potato masher, leaving the rest whole.
5.test for doneness:
to check if your preserves are ready, spoon a little onto a cold plate. if it thickens and holds its shape when you push it with your finger, it’s done. if it’s still runny, cook for an additional 5-10 minutes and test again.
6.jar the preserves:
once the preserves are ready, carefully ladle them into sterilized jars if you plan to store them long-term, leaving a bit of space at the top. seal the jars and let them cool to room temperature. if you’re using the preserves right away, simply transfer them to clean jars and store them in the fridge. enjoy!!!
highly recommend freshly baked bread
Making strawberry preserves from scratch is a delightful kitchen project that brings the essence of summer into your home. Not only are they perfect for spreading on freshly baked bread, but they're also a great way to preserve seasonal strawberries. The key ingredients for this recipe include ripe strawberries, granulated sugar, fresh lemon juice, and pectin. The combination of sugar and lemon juice helps to balance the sweetness of the strawberries while assisting in the jelling process. Before you get started, ensure that your strawberries are fresh, firm, and free from mold. It’s important to wash them gently under cold water and remove the hulls before slicing. After mixing the fruit with sugar and lemon juice, let it sit to allow the strawberries to release their juices, which enhances the final flavor. Cooking the mixture on medium heat is crucial to breaking down the strawberries and dissolving the sugar. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking. If you prefer chunkier preserves, simply mash some strawberries while leaving others whole during the simmering phase. Testing for doneness can be done using the plate method; if it thickens, it’s ready to jar. Once your preserves have achieved the desired thickness, carefully transfer them to sterilized jars. This is a crucial step for long-term storage, especially if you want to savor this treat for months to come. Homemade strawberry preserves make excellent gifts and can be paired with a variety of dishes. Enjoy this sweet treat any time of the year!
