Strawberry Preserves: A Taste of Summer in a Jar
Strawberry preserves are a delightful way to capture the sweet and vibrant flavors of summer. They can be enjoyed on toast, biscuits, or even used as a delicious filling for pastries. The process of making strawberry preserves is relatively simple and rewarding, allowing you to savor the taste of fresh strawberries long after the season has passed.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 4 cups granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup lemon juice
Equipment:
- Large pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
- Jar lifter
- Canning jars (pint or half-pint size)
- Canning lids and rings
- Water bath canner or large pot
Instructions:
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Prepare the jars: Wash canning jars, lids, and rings in hot, soapy water. Sterilize the jars by boiling them in a water bath for 10 minutes. Leave the lids and rings in hot water until ready to use.
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Prepare the strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice your strawberries.
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Combine ingredients: Combine strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice in a large pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently.
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Simmer and cook: Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. The preserves should thicken and set. You can test for doneness by placing a small amount of the preserve on a chilled plate. If it sets, it's ready.
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Fill the jars: Carefully ladle the hot preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Use a clean spoon to remove any air bubbles.
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Seal the jars: Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any excess preserve. Place lids on the jars and tighten rings.
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Process in a water bath: Place jars in a water bath canner, ensuring the water covers the jars by at least 1 inch. Bring the water to a boil and process for 10 minutes.
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Cool and store: Carefully remove jars from the water bath and place them on a clean towel to cool completely. You should hear a "pop" as the jars seal. Once cool, store the preserves in a cool, dark place.
Tips:
- Fresh is best: Use the freshest strawberries possible for the best flavor.
- Lemon juice: The lemon juice helps to prevent the preserves from becoming too sweet and adds a touch of brightness.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can cause the preserves to become too thick and lose their vibrant color.
- Label and date: Label your preserves with the date so you know how long they've been stored.
Enjoy the fruits of your labor! These homemade strawberry preserves will make a delicious and special addition to any pantry and bring a taste of summer to your table all year long.
