Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh strawberries, hulled
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 2 teaspoons lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions
- Prepare a cold plate: Place a small plate in the freezer before you start cooking. This will be used to test the readiness of the preserves.
- Combine strawberries and sugar: In a 1-quart or larger saucepan, add the fresh hulled strawberries, granulated sugar, and lemon juice. Opting for a larger pan helps reduce cooking time by increasing surface area.
- Lightly crush strawberries: Use a potato masher or the bottom of a flat glass to lightly smash a few of the strawberries. This releases juices needed to start the cooking process, but keep most berries intact.
- Boil and cook preserves: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently. Then reduce the heat to maintain a gentle boil. Continue boiling for about 9 minutes, adjusting the heat as needed to prevent burning. The mixture should reach approximately 220 °F (104 °C). It will still be somewhat runny but will thicken upon cooling.
- Test for doneness: Drop a small spoonful of preserves onto the frozen plate and let sit for one minute. Push the edge with your finger; if it wrinkles and holds shape, the preserves are ready.
- Add vanilla extract: Stir in the vanilla extract to infuse a subtle aromatic flavor.
- Cool the preserves: Remove the saucepan from heat and place it on a wire rack to cool completely, about 1-2 hours.
- Store properly: Transfer the cooled preserves into clean jars. Refrigerate for up to 1 week. For longer storage, freeze the preserves, where they can last up to 1 year without quality loss.
Notes
- Using a larger pan reduces cooking time because of increased surface area.
- Testing the preserve on a cold plate is essential to ensure proper consistency.
- Preserves are still a bit runny when hot but thicken as they cool.
- Although refrigeration is recommended for up to 1 week, freezing leftovers extends shelf life up to 1 year.
- Make sure jars are clean and sterilized before storing preserves to prevent spoilage.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Preserves
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
