Fresh Strawberry Preserves Recipe
Introduction
Fresh strawberry preserves capture the sweet, vibrant flavor of ripe strawberries in a simple, homemade jam. This easy recipe yields a luscious spread perfect for toast, yogurt, or desserts.
Ingredients
- 1 pound (453 grams) fresh or fresh-frozen strawberries
- 3/4 cup sugar (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- About 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Step 1: Wash the strawberries and remove the green tops, keeping as much fruit as possible. Roughly chop the strawberries.
- Step 2: Place the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a medium pot. Stir in about two tablespoons of water. Make sure not to fill the pot to the brim as the mixture will foam when it starts cooking.
- Step 3: Heat the mixture over medium-high heat and bring it to a boil, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes, or until the temperature reaches 220°F (104°C).
- Step 4: Taste the preserves carefully (they will be hot) and add up to 1/4 cup more sugar if desired. Check the thickness by running a spoon through a dollop of jam on a plate; it should hold a line. It will thicken further as it cools.
- Step 5: Transfer the preserves to an airtight container and let cool before storing.
Tips & Variations
- For a smoother texture, mash the strawberries slightly while cooking or use an immersion blender after simmering.
- Add a splash of vanilla extract or a pinch of cinnamon for a unique twist on classic strawberry preserves.
- Use organic lemons for a fresher citrus flavor and to avoid any waxy coatings.
- If you prefer a less sweet preserve, reduce the sugar by a quarter cup or adjust to taste.
Storage
Store the strawberry preserves in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three weeks. To reheat, warm gently in a small saucepan or microwave before serving to restore spreadable consistency.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, fresh-frozen strawberries work well. Thaw and drain excess liquid before starting to avoid a watery preserve.
Do I need a candy thermometer to make strawberry preserves?
While a thermometer helps achieve the perfect set, you can also test by placing a small amount on a cold plate; if it thickens and holds a line after a minute, it is ready.
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Fresh Strawberry Preserves Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: About 1 to 1 1/2 cups of strawberry preserves 1x
Description
This Fresh Strawberry Preserves recipe offers a simple and delicious way to capture the vibrant flavors of ripe strawberries in a sweet, homemade jam. Made with just strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice, this preserve is perfect for spreading on toast, swirling into yogurt, or adding a fruity touch to desserts. The stovetop cooking method gently cooks the fruit and sugar to achieve a perfect consistency while maintaining the berry’s fresh taste.
Ingredients
Fresh Strawberry Preserves Ingredients
- 1 pound (453 grams) fresh or fresh-frozen strawberries
- 3/4 cup sugar (plus more to taste)
- 1/2 lemon, juiced
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Prepare Strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly and remove the green tops, taking care to preserve as much of the fruit as possible. Roughly chop the strawberries into smaller pieces to help them cook evenly.
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium pot, place the chopped strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and about two tablespoons of water. Stir to combine. Ensure the pot is not filled to the brim to prevent overflow as the mixture foams during cooking.
- Cook the Preserves: Heat the pot over medium-high heat until the mixture comes to a boil, stirring frequently to avoid scorching. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and simmer uncovered for approximately 20 minutes, or until the temperature reaches 220° Fahrenheit. Stir occasionally and taste for sweetness, adding up to an additional 1/4 cup sugar if desired. Test the preserves’ thickness by placing a spoonful on a plate and running a spoon through it—it should hold a line and continue to thicken as it cools.
- Store the Preserves: Once cooked and cooled slightly, transfer the strawberry preserves to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator and consume within three weeks for optimal freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use fresh or fresh-frozen strawberries depending on the season; frozen berries should be thawed before cooking.
- The lemon juice helps balance the sweetness and aids in preserving the color and freshness of the preserves.
- If the preserves seem too runny after cooling, cook a bit longer next time or use a small amount of pectin if preferred.
- Always use a clean, airtight container to maximize shelf life in the refrigerator.
- For a chunkier preserve, chop strawberries less finely; for smoother preserves, chop more finely or gently mash.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: strawberry preserves, homemade jam, fresh strawberry jam, easy preserves, fruit preserves, stovetop jam
