Sure, here’s a simple recipe for strawberry preserves:
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds (about 900g) fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and chopped
- 4 cups (800g) granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup (60ml) fresh lemon juice
- Optional: 1 tablespoon of lemon zest for added flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberries: Wash the strawberries thoroughly under cold running water. Remove the stems and hulls, then chop the berries into small pieces.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and lemon zest if using. Stir well to combine.
- Cook the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 45-60 minutes, or until the mixture thickens to your desired consistency. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and burning.
- Test for Doneness: To check if the preserves are ready, you can perform a gel test. Place a small amount of the mixture on a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. If it thickens and wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready. If not, continue cooking and testing at intervals.
- Jar and Store: Once the preserves reach the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat. Let the mixture cool slightly, then carefully ladle it into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean, seal the jars tightly with lids, and process them in a boiling water bath for about 10-15 minutes to ensure proper sealing. Alternatively, you can store the preserves in clean, airtight containers in the refrigerator for immediate use.
- Enjoy: Your strawberry preserves are now ready to enjoy! Serve them on toast, biscuits, pancakes, or use them as a filling for cakes and pastries.
- Storage: Properly sealed jars of preserves can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to a year. Once opened, store them in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.
Enjoy your homemade strawberry preserves!
