There’s nothing quite like the scent of strawberries bubbling on the stove during peak season in York, Durham, and Headwaters. This easy homemade jam celebrates those sweet, juicy local berries you can’t wait to bring home.
It’s a bright, chunky jam with just the right balance of sweetness and a hint of tartness from fresh lemon. Perfect on warm biscuits, swirled into yogurt, or spooned over vanilla ice cream on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients (makes about 4 half-pint jars)
- 2 pounds (about 8 cups) fresh local strawberries, hulled and quartered
- 2½ cups superfine sugar (or fruit sugar)
- ¼ cup fresh lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
- ½ tsp of zested ginger (optional oomph)
- 1 tsp vanilla extract or a split vanilla bean
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
- Clean jars with lids (sterilized)
Easy Directions
1. Prep the Strawberries Hull and quarter the strawberries. Place them in a large bowl with the sugar and lemon juice. Stir gently to combine. Let the mixture sit for 20–30 minutes. The berries will release their juices and the sugar will mostly dissolve.
2. Cook the Jam Pour the strawberry mixture (and zested ginger if using) into a large heavy-bottomed pot. Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring often.
Once boiling, reduce heat to medium and let it simmer. Stir frequently for 20–30 minutes. The jam will thicken and darken slightly.
Quick test for doneness: Drop a small spoonful onto a plate that’s been chilled in the freezer. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready.
3. Flavor Boost Stir in the vanilla during the last 5 minutes of cooking if desired.
4. Jar the Jam Remove from heat and skim off any foam. Carefully ladle the hot jam into clean, sterilized jars, leaving ¼-inch headspace. Wipe rims, add lids, and tighten.
Let the jars cool completely on the counter (you should hear the satisfying “pop” as they seal). Store in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or process in a water bath canner for longer shelf life.
This jam captures the bright taste of local strawberry season in every spoonful. Make a batch while the berries are at their peak and your future toast, cheese boards, and summer desserts will thank you!
Happy Summer Fam-Jam!
Get your strawberries at these local gems!
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