Quick and Easy Strawberry Jam Recipe Adventures of Mel from adventuresofmel.com
Introduction
Do you have an abundance of fresh fruits, but you're not sure what to do with them? Why not try making your own homemade jam? Not only is it a great way to use up your fruits before they go bad, but it also allows you to control the ingredients and customize the flavors to your liking. In this article, we'll show you how to make a simple and delicious jam recipe that you can enjoy on toast, scones, or even as a topping for ice cream.
Ingredients
To make our recipe jam, you'll need the following ingredients:
4 cups of fresh fruit (such as strawberries, raspberries, or blueberries)
1 cup of granulated sugar
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
1 teaspoon of vanilla extract
Fruit Options
You can use any type of fresh fruit you have on hand for this recipe. Some popular options include:
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Blackberries
Cherries
Peaches
Apricots
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let's get started on making our recipe jam.
Step 1: Prepare Your Fruit
Wash your fruit and remove any stems, leaves, or pits. If you're using larger fruits like peaches or apricots, you'll want to chop them into smaller pieces.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
In a large pot, combine your fruit, sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla extract. Stir everything together until the sugar has dissolved.
Step 3: Cook the Jam
Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once it's boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Test for Doneness
To make sure your jam is ready, you can perform a "wrinkle test." Place a small amount of the jam on a cold plate and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, push the jam with your finger. If it wrinkles and holds its shape, it's ready. If it's still runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and try again.
Step 5: Store Your Jam
Once your jam is ready, remove it from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, transfer it to clean jars with tight-fitting lids. Store your jam in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks, or freeze it for longer storage.
Nutrition
While jam is a delicious treat, it's also important to keep in mind that it's high in sugar. One tablespoon of our recipe jam contains approximately:
50 calories
13 grams of carbohydrates
12 grams of sugar
Tips for Customizing Your Jam
If you want to get creative with your jam-making, here are some tips for customizing your recipe:
Add spices like cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm, cozy flavor
Use honey or maple syrup instead of granulated sugar for a healthier option
Mix different types of fruits together for a unique flavor combination
Add a splash of booze like whiskey or brandy for an adult twist
Conclusion
Making your own recipe jam is a fun and easy way to enjoy your fresh fruits all year round. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can create a delicious spread that's perfect for breakfast, snacks, or desserts. So go ahead and give it a try – your taste buds will thank you!
