Small Batch Strawberry Jam Food

SMALL BATCH STRAWBERRY JAM

Steps:

• Wash and slice the strawberries, removing the hulls and green tops.
• Add them to a saucepan, and mix the sugar in well.
• Stir continually over medium heat, and bring the strawberries to boil.
• Once boiling, add the lemon juice and zest (if using).
• Boil for about 15 minutes, or until the jam reaches 220F.
• Stir often, to make sure the jam doesn't burn.
• Pour into a jar and allow to cool.
• Cover and refrigerate.
• Use within about 2 weeks (if it lasts that long).

SMALL BATCH FRESH STRAWBERRY JAM

Steps:

• In a 10 or 12 inch wide skillet bring fruit, sugar and lemon juice to boil over medium high heat, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium and cook, stirring constantly and skimming foam as necessary. Cook about 8 to 10 minutes, until mixture begin to look syrupy and thicken slightly.
• Cool jam to room temperature before serving. Refrigerate.

STRAWBERRY JAM

Steps:

• Place the mason jars in a large hot water bath canner (or pot). Cover with water and bring to a simmer. Simmer the center lids in separate saucepan full of water.
• Place the mashed strawberries and lemon juice in a separate pot. Stir in the pectin until dissolved. Bring the strawberries to a strong boil.
• Add the sugar (measure beforehand so you can add it all at once), and then return the mixture to a full (violent) boil that can't be stirred down. Boil hard for 1 minute 15 seconds. Skim foam off the top.
• Remove one jar at a time from the simmering water. Pour water back into the pot. Using a wide-mouth funnel, fill each jar with jam, being careful to keep the liquid/fruit ratio consistent. Fill the jars so that they have 1/4-inch of space at the top. Run a knife down the side of the jar to get rid of air bubbles. Wipe the rim of the jar with a wet cloth to remove any residue or stickiness.
• Remove the center lid from the simmering water and position it on top. Put screw bands on jars, but do not over tighten! Repeat with all the jars, and then place the jars on a canning rack and lower into the water. Place the lid on the canner, and then bring the water to a full boil. Boil hard for 10 to 12 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and allow the jars to remain in the hot water for an addition 5 minutes. Remove the jars from the water using a jar lifter, and allow them to sit undisturbed for 24 hours.
• After 24 hours, remove the screw bands and check the seal of the jars. The center lids should have no give whatsoever. If any seals are compromised, store those jars in the fridge. Otherwise, fill your pantry with your newly canned goodness.