Discover the Perfect Homemade Strawberry Raspberry Jam
If you’re on a quest for a vibrant, fruity jam that bursts with natural berry flavors, this strawberry raspberry jam is a must-try. Unlike store-bought alternatives, this homemade jam offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tang, enriched by the natural goodness of strawberries and raspberries. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, layering it in a cake, or stirring it into yogurt, this versatile jam will elevate your culinary creations. In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through every aspect of making this jam, ensuring your success even if you’re new to jam-making.
Why Homemade Jam is Worth It
Homemade jam is more than just a recipe—it’s an experience. Here’s why crafting your own strawberry raspberry jam is so rewarding:
Control Over Ingredients: You choose fresh, high-quality fruits and adjust the sweetness to your liking.
No Preservatives: Unlike commercial jams, your homemade version will be free from artificial preservatives and additives.
Customizable Flavors: Add a hint of vanilla, a dash of cinnamon, or a splash of orange juice to make it your own.
Cost-Effective: Making jam at home can be more economical than buying premium jars from gourmet stores.
Sustainability: Reuse jars and support local farmers by sourcing fresh produce.
Key Ingredients and Their Role
Understanding the ingredients ensures you achieve the perfect consistency and flavor:
Strawberries (250 g): These form the base of the jam, offering a naturally sweet and slightly tangy flavor. Ensure the strawberries are ripe for the best results.
Raspberries (125 g): Adding raspberries complements the strawberries with a tart note and enhances the jam’s vibrant color.
Sugar (100 g): Sugar is essential for sweetness and helps preserve the jam. You can experiment with unrefined sugar or a mix of white and brown sugar for a richer flavor.
Lemon Juice (15 ml): Lemon juice is a natural pectin substitute, aiding in thickening the jam and balancing the sweetness with a hint of acidity.
Vanilla Extract (Optional, ¼ tsp): A subtle addition of vanilla adds depth and complexity to the flavor profile.
Choosing the Best Fruits
Strawberries: Look for plump, deep red strawberries with a sweet aroma. Avoid overripe or underripe ones as they can affect the jam’s taste and texture.
Raspberries: Fresh, firm raspberries are ideal. If fresh raspberries aren’t available, frozen ones can be used as a substitute.
Essential Tools for Jam-Making
Small-Medium Saucepan: A heavy-bottomed pan ensures even cooking and prevents the jam from burning.
Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring and breaking down the fruit.
Sterilized Jars: Properly sterilized jars are critical to prevent contamination and extend the jam’s shelf life.
Tongs or Gloves: These help safely handle hot jars during the sterilization process.
Candy Thermometer (Optional): To check if the jam has reached its setting point (around 220°F or 104°C).
Tips for Perfect Jam Every Time
Sterilize Your Jars: Clean jars thoroughly and sterilize them by either boiling them in water for 10 minutes or warming them in a low oven. Ensure they’re dry before filling.
Don’t Rush the Cooking Process: Simmer the jam slowly to allow the flavors to develop and the mixture to thicken naturally.
Test for Doneness: To check if the jam is ready, place a small amount on a chilled plate and run your finger through it. If it wrinkles and doesn’t flow back together, it’s done.
Remove Foam: Skim off any foam that forms on the surface for a clearer, smoother jam.
Seal While Hot: Pour the jam into sterilized jars while it’s still hot, seal immediately, and allow it to cool completely before storing.
Storage and Shelf Life
Properly sealed jars of jam can be stored in a cool, dark place for up to 6 months. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 2-3 weeks.
Simple Step-by-Step Recipe for Strawberry Raspberry Jam
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
25 minutes
Ingredients:
250 g fresh strawberries, hulled and roughly chopped
125 g fresh raspberries
100 g sugar
15 ml freshly squeezed lemon juice
¼ teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Fruits: Hull the strawberries and cut them into small pieces. Place the strawberries, raspberries, sugar, lemon juice, and optional vanilla extract in a medium saucepan.
Start Cooking: Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring regularly to dissolve the sugar. Gently mash the fruits with a spoon as they soften to release their juices.
Sterilize the Jars: While the jam cooks, sterilize your jars. Submerge them in boiling water for 10 minutes or warm them in a low oven. Use tongs or gloves to handle the hot jars.
Simmer the Jam: Bring the mixture to a simmer and reduce the heat slightly. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and darkens in color.
Check for Doneness: Test the jam by placing a small amount on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when touched, it’s ready. If not, continue cooking for a few more minutes.
Skim and Transfer: Remove the saucepan from heat and skim off any foam. Carefully pour the hot jam into the prepared jars, leaving a little space at the top. Seal immediately.
Cool and Store: Allow the jars to cool completely before storing them in a cool, dark place.
Notes:
This recipe yields approximately 1 cup (8 oz or 236 g) of jam.
Experiment with other berries or a mix for a unique flavor twist.
Always use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
Nutrition Per Serving:
Calories: 34 kcal
Carbohydrates: 8 g
Protein: 0.2 g
Fat: 0.1 g
Fiber: 1 g
Sugar: 7 g
Vitamin C: 12 mg
Calcium: 5 mg
Iron: 0.1 mg
