Homemade Strawberry Delight Preserves
Transport yourself back to cherished moments in grandma's kitchen with these luscious homemade strawberry preserves. This recipe embraces the natural sweetness of fresh strawberries, transforming simple ingredients into a vibrant and flavorful spread. With a method passed down through generations, these preserves showcase the essence of summer in every spoonful. Whether slathered on toast, dolloped on desserts, or stirred into yogurt, they capture the pure flavor of strawberries without the use of pectin. Perfect for those seeking a touch of nostalgia with a modern twist, especially for those who would like to try it with Splenda for a lower-sugar option.
2.5
Servings
N/A
Calories
2
Ingredients
Ingredients
Strawberries
1 quart (Cap and rinse)
Granulated Sugar
2 1/2 cups (Divided into 1 cup and 1 1/2 cups)
Instructions
1
Cap the strawberries and rinse them thoroughly in cold water, then place in a large colander to drain.
2
Pour boiling water over the berries and let them drain for 1 minute. This step helps to enhance their flavor.
3
In a Dutch oven, combine the prepared strawberries with 1 cup of sugar. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring frequently to dissolve the sugar. Boil for 7 minutes.
4
Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of sugar to the pot and continue boiling for an additional 7 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
5
Transfer the strawberry mixture into a shallow 13x9-inch pan, ensuring even distribution. Skim off any foam on the surface using a metal spoon to obtain a clear preserve.
6
Allow the mixture to stand uncovered in a cool place for 12 hours. Gently shake the pan occasionally to help the berries absorb the syrup and remain plump.
7
After the resting period, skim off any additional foam, then carefully pour the preserves into sterilized jelly jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
8
Seal the jars with a 1/8 inch layer of paraffin wax, then cover with the lids, ensuring they are airtight.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Homemade Strawberry Delight Preserves?
They are a vibrant and flavorful spread made with fresh strawberries and sugar, capturing the essence of summer without using pectin.
What ingredients are required for this recipe?
The recipe requires 1 quart of fresh strawberries and 2 1/2 cups of granulated sugar.
How do I prepare the strawberries?
Cap and rinse the strawberries in cold water, then drain them in a large colander.
Why pour boiling water over the strawberries?
Pouring boiling water over the berries for 1 minute helps to enhance their natural flavor before cooking.
Does this recipe use pectin?
No, this recipe is pectin-free, utilizing traditional methods to thicken the preserves.
How much sugar is used in the first boiling stage?
Use 1 cup of granulated sugar for the initial 7-minute boil.
How long is the total boiling time?
The total boiling time is 14 minutes, divided into two 7-minute intervals.
When do I add the remaining sugar?
Add the remaining 1 1/2 cups of sugar after the first 7 minutes of boiling.
What type of pot should I use for cooking?
A Dutch oven is recommended for cooking the preserves over medium-high heat.
How do I prevent the sugar from sticking or burning?
Stir the mixture frequently throughout the boiling process to dissolve the sugar and prevent sticking.
Why transfer the mixture to a 13x9-inch pan?
A shallow pan ensures even distribution and helps the mixture cool and set properly.
How do I achieve a clear preserve?
Skim off any foam from the surface using a metal spoon both after cooking and after the resting period.
How long should the preserves rest after cooking?
The mixture should stand uncovered in a cool place for 12 hours.
Why should I shake the pan during the resting period?
Gently shaking the pan helps the strawberries absorb the syrup so they remain plump.
Can I make a lower-sugar version?
Yes, the recipe suggests trying Splenda as a lower-sugar option for those who prefer it.
How do I prepare the jars for filling?
Use sterilized jelly jars to ensure the preserves are safe for storage.
How much headspace is needed in the jars?
Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
How are the jars sealed?
Seal the jars with a 1/8 inch layer of paraffin wax and then cover them with airtight lids.
What is the yield of this recipe?
The recipe yields approximately 2.5 servings or jars.
Are the strawberries whole in these preserves?
Yes, the method of rinsing and shaking the pan helps keep the strawberries plump and intact.
What is the history of this recipe?
It is a traditional method passed down through generations, often associated with nostalgia and grandma's kitchen.
Can I use these preserves as a dessert topping?
Absolutely; they are excellent dolloped on desserts, stirred into yogurt, or spread on toast.
What temperature should the resting area be?
The preserves should rest in a cool place for the 12-hour period.
Is the pan covered during the 12-hour rest?
No, the mixture should remain uncovered while it stands for 12 hours.
What type of spoon is best for skimming foam?
A metal spoon is recommended for effectively skimming foam from the surface.
Should I rinse the strawberries in hot or cold water first?
Initially rinse the strawberries in cold water before the boiling water treatment.
What heat setting is used for boiling?
The mixture should be brought to a boil over medium-high heat.
Are there any artificial preservatives used?
No, this recipe uses only natural ingredients: strawberries and sugar.
Can I use other fruits with this exact method?
While designed for strawberries, this traditional preservation method is best suited for high-sugar fruit spreads.
Does the recipe require a candy thermometer?
No, the recipe relies on timed boiling intervals rather than specific temperature readings.