Strawberry Freezer Jam Recipe

Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries are the star of this recipe, providing natural sweetness and flavor.

Sugar: This helps to sweeten the jam and also acts as a preservative.

Fruit pectin: A gelling agent that helps the jam set properly, ensuring it has the right consistency.

Water: Used to dissolve the pectin and help it mix evenly with the strawberries.

When crushing the strawberries, aim for a consistent texture by using a potato masher or a fork. This ensures that the fruit is evenly distributed throughout the jam, giving you a smooth and spreadable consistency. Avoid using a blender or food processor, as this can make the mixture too liquidy and affect the final set of the jam.

• crushed strawberries - Substitute with crushed raspberries: Raspberries provide a similar texture and tartness, making them a great alternative to strawberries.

• sugar - Substitute with honey: Honey can be used as a natural sweetener and adds a unique flavor profile to the jam.

• fruit pectin - Substitute with chia seeds: Chia seeds can act as a natural thickener and add a nutritional boost to the jam.

• water - Substitute with apple juice: Apple juice can add a subtle sweetness and enhance the overall flavor of the jam.

• Ensure your containers are clean and dry before use. Opt for glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers with tight-fitting lids to maintain freshness.
• Pour the strawberry freezer jam into the containers, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top to allow for expansion during freezing.
• Seal the containers tightly to prevent any air from entering, which can cause freezer burn and affect the quality of your jam.
• Let the jam sit at room temperature for 24 hours to set properly. This step is crucial for achieving the right consistency.
• Label each container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness. Use a permanent marker or adhesive labels.
• Place the containers in the freezer. The jam can be stored for up to one year, retaining its vibrant flavor and texture.
• When ready to use, thaw the jam in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight. Avoid microwaving as it can alter the texture and taste.
• Once thawed, keep the jam in the refrigerator and consume within three weeks for optimal flavor and quality.

• Thaw the strawberry freezer jam in the refrigerator overnight. This method ensures the jam retains its fresh, fruity flavor and texture.
• For a quicker option, place the sealed container of jam in a bowl of cold water. Change the water every 30 minutes until the jam is thawed.
• If you're in a hurry, you can use the microwave. Place the jam in a microwave-safe bowl and heat on the defrost setting for short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even thawing.
• Avoid reheating the jam directly on the stove or in the oven, as this can alter its consistency and flavor.

• Mixing bowl: Use this to combine the crushed strawberries and sugar, allowing them to stand and meld together.

• Saucepan: This is essential for boiling the pectin and water mixture to activate the gelling properties.

• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements of strawberries, sugar, and water are crucial for the jam to set properly.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the strawberry mixture and later the pectin mixture to ensure everything is well combined.

• Containers: These are used to store the finished jam. Make sure they are freezer-safe.

• Ladle: Helps in transferring the jam mixture into the containers without making a mess.

• Timer: Useful for keeping track of the 10-minute standing time for the strawberries and sugar, as well as the 1-minute boiling time for the pectin mixture.

• Crushing tool: A potato masher or fork can be used to crush the strawberries to the desired consistency.

Prepare ingredients in advance: Wash and crush the strawberries ahead of time to streamline the process.

Use a food processor: Quickly crush strawberries using a food processor instead of doing it by hand.

Measure ingredients beforehand: Have all sugar, pectin, and water pre-measured to save time during preparation.

Boil water efficiently: Use an electric kettle to boil water faster for the pectin mixture.

Utilize freezer-safe containers: Prepare containers in advance to pour the jam mixture immediately after stirring.