Do you recall the warm, dew-laden summer mornings of your childhood spent gathering strawberries from your grandparent’s garden? Those sunshine-filled moments when the soft, enticing scent of ripe strawberries filled the air, and the taste of the succulent, juicy berries initiated a celebration on your taste buds? This Strawberry Morning Jam celebrates those cherished, sweet moments. As the berries quietly simmer on the stove, their red exterior takes on a deeper hue. The kitchen becomes filled with a floral scent, reminiscent of a blossom-filled field bathed in the glow of an early morning sun. You’ll feel the satisfying burst of their natural juices and hear the delightful sound as the sugar dissolves and mingles with the fruit to create a sugary symphony. A combination that is more than just a simple preserve – it’s an experience, a dance between sugar, strawberries, and sunlight. For me, this jam is a testament to summer’s abundance, a respectful acknowledgement of nature’s lavish gifts. As the sugar-coated strawberries bubble away, the kitchen seems to pulse with the rhythm of the changing seasons. The creation of this jam, a tradition passed down through generations in my family, becomes a celebration of the passage of time and the cycle of life. Naturally, the entertaining part is when everything doesn’t quite unfold as expected. Sometimes, the sugar may darken too much, or the texture might be slightly too fluid. But don’t be disheartened. Life, like cooking, is about embracing the quirks and savouring the sweetness that comes with it. Isn’t that the essence of cooking, after all? Strawberries have a rich past. Since the days of ancient Rome, they have been respected for their therapeutic properties. In France, they were a symbol of perfection and love, often served at wedding breakfasts. This modest Strawberry Morning Jam is my tribute to the universal adoration and regard we hold for this vivid fruit. As you get ready to embark on this gastronomic adventure, imagine the joy of waking up to a toast spread with your homemade Strawberry Morning Jam. Picture the pleasure of sharing it with your loved ones over a relaxed breakfast, the conversation gradually warming up like the sun outside. So, let’s get started, shall we?
Ingredients
- 2 pounds of ripe strawberries
- 1 1/2 cups of white sugar
- Zest and juice of one medium lemon
- 1 vanilla pod, split and seeds scraped
- 1 tablespoon of pectin
- A smidgen of salt
- 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter
- A dash of brandy (optional)
Instructions
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Begin by gently washing the strawberries under cool, running water. Once clean, hull them and chop into quarters. Smaller berries can be halved. Take a moment to admire the succulent, vibrant red pulp, sweet with the promise of summer.
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In a large, non-reactive pot, mix the strawberries with sugar. Stir gently, ensuring each piece of berry is dusted with sugar. Allow them to sit for two hours to release their juices.
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After this period, you’ll find a beautiful, thick strawberry syrup has formed. Over medium heat, bring this mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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As the mixture begins bubbling, add the lemon juice, zest, vanilla pod and seeds, and pectin. The lemon will enhance the flavors while the vanilla adds a touch of floral sweetness.
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Maintain a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. This might take around 30 to 45 minutes. Look for a thick, luxurious consistency. The color should deepen, becoming a dark, captivating red.
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When the jam appears glossy and holds its shape on a chilled spoon, it’s done. A few minutes before you remove it from the heat, stir in a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of unsalted butter. This will alleviate the sweetness and add a lovely richness.
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If you’re feeling bold, add a dash of brandy. The alcohol will cook off, leaving behind a complex depth of flavor.
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Allow the mixture to cool slightly before transferring to sterilised jars. Seal, label, and store in a cool, dark place.
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Your Strawberry Morning Jam is now ready. It will keep for up to a year unopened, but there’s a good chance it won’t last that long.
Nutritional Information
- Calories: 79 Kcal
- Protein: 0.4 g
- Fat: 0.2 g
- Carbs: 19.8 g
Final Result
