Homemade Strawberry Jam Simple Flavorful Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 1 4 cup lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (like Sure-Jell)

Instructions

1. Begin by preparing your jars and lids. Wash them in hot, soapy water, then place them in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes to sterilize. Keep them warm until you are ready to fill them.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chopped strawberries with half of the sugar (1 cup). Stir well and let this mixture sit for about 30 minutes. This allows the strawberries to macerate, releasing their juices.
3. After the strawberries have rested, pour them into a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the lemon juice and stir gently.
4. Sprinkle the fruit pectin over the strawberry mixture and stir until it's fully dissolved. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly.
5. Once boiling, add the remaining sugar and continue to stir. Bring the mixture back to a rolling boil for 1-2 minutes, allowing it to thicken. You should notice a change in texture as it bubbles more vigorously.
6. Remove the pot from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
7. Test the jam’s consistency by dropping a spoonful onto a chilled plate. If it sets up after a minute, it is ready for canning. If not, return it to the heat for an additional minute.
8. Carefully spoon the hot jam into the prepared sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to ensure a good seal.
9. Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until they are fingertip tight.
10. Process the jars in a boiling water bath for about 10 minutes to ensure they seal properly. Remove the jars from the water bath and let them cool completely on a clean kitchen towel or a cooling rack.