Ingredients
Scale
4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
2 cups granulated sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1/4 tsp salt
1 packet (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (optional, for a firmer texture)
Instructions
- Place the sliced strawberries in a large mixing bowl, and mash them with a potato masher or fork to your desired consistency. You can leave it a little chunky or make it smooth.
- Transfer the mashed strawberries to a large saucepan. Stir in the sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Once the mixture reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat slightly and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the preserves thicken. You can test the thickness by placing a spoonful on a cold plate and running your finger through it—if it wrinkles and stays separated, it’s ready.
- If you’re using pectin, add it according to the package instructions during the cooking process.
- Pour the hot strawberry preserves into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool.
- Store the preserves in the refrigerator for up to a month, or process in a water bath for longer shelf life.
Notes
If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend the strawberry mixture before cooking.
Adjust the amount of sugar depending on the sweetness of your strawberries. Taste the mixture before boiling and add more if needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Breakfast
- Method: Stove Top
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tablespoon
- Calories: 50
- Sugar: 13g
- Sodium: 0mg
- Fat: 0g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 0g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 13g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg