Homemade Strawberry and Basil Jam
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Easy Recipe Strawberry Basil Preserves
Strawberry jam is a classic favorite that many of us grew up enjoying, but have you ever tried adding a savory twist to this beloved spread?
Strawberry and Basil Jam is a delightful combination that brings together the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the fresh, aromatic flavor of basil.
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This unique blend creates a jam that’s not only delicious on toast but also pairs beautifully with cheeses, meats, and more.
In this article, I’ll guide you through making your own strawberry and basil jam at home, and share some tips on how to enjoy it to the fullest.
Why You’ll Love Strawberry and Basil Jam
- A Fresh Twist on a Classic: The addition of basil takes traditional strawberry jam to a whole new level, offering a sophisticated flavor profile that’s both sweet and savory.
- Easy to Make: With just a few ingredients and some simple steps, you can create this gourmet jam right in your own kitchen.
- Versatile Uses: This jam isn’t just for breakfast—use it as a glaze for meats, a topping for desserts, or as an accompaniment to a cheese board.
- Preserves Summer Flavors: Capture the taste of summer all year long by making a batch of this delicious strawberry and basil jam.
Strawberry and Basil Jam Recipe
Ingredients:
- 4 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
- 2 cups granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
- 1/4 cup packed fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- Optional: 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar for added depth of flavor
Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberries: Start by washing, hulling, and chopping the strawberries into small pieces. This ensures the jam will have a nice, even consistency.
- Cook the Strawberries: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar dissolves. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring frequently to prevent sticking.
- Add the Basil: Once the strawberries are boiling and starting to break down, add the chopped basil and lemon zest. If you’re using balsamic vinegar, add it at this stage as well. Continue to cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it thickens. This should take about 20-25 minutes. To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a chilled plate—if it wrinkles when pushed with your finger, it’s done.
- Jar the Jam: Once the jam has reached the desired consistency, remove it from heat. Carefully ladle the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of space at the top. Wipe the rims clean, seal the jars with lids, and let them cool to room temperature. If you plan to store the jam for an extended period, process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes.
- Store and Enjoy: Store the jam in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it refrigerated and consume within a few weeks. Enjoy your homemade strawberry and basil jam on toast, in yogurt, as a topping for desserts, or paired with your favorite cheeses.
Tips for Making the Best Strawberry and Basil Jam
- Choose Ripe Strawberries: The quality of your jam depends on the quality of your strawberries. Choose ripe, fragrant strawberries for the best flavor.
- Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a vibrant, aromatic note to the jam. Make sure to finely chop the basil so it distributes evenly throughout the jam.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar to suit your taste. Remember, sugar also acts as a preservative, so don’t reduce it too much.
- Experiment with Flavors: Feel free to experiment by adding other herbs like mint or thyme, or spices like black pepper, to create your own unique version of this jam.
How to Enjoy Strawberry and Basil Jam
This Strawberry and Basil Jam is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways:
- Spread on Toast: A simple and classic way to enjoy this jam is on a slice of warm, buttered toast.
- Cheese Pairing: Serve it alongside soft cheeses like brie or goat cheese for a delightful contrast of flavors.
- Dessert Topping: Use it as a topping for vanilla ice cream, cheesecake, or pancakes for a sweet treat.
- Glaze for Meats: Brush it over chicken, pork, or duck for a sweet and savory glaze that will impress your dinner guests.
Making your own Strawberry and Basil Jam is a wonderful way to elevate a traditional favorite into something truly special.
The combination of sweet strawberries and fragrant basil creates a jam that’s bursting with flavor and versatility.
Whether you’re spreading it on toast or using it in more creative ways, this jam is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Give this recipe a try, and discover just how easy and rewarding it is to make homemade jam with a gourmet twist. Your taste buds will thank you!
Enjoy this Easy video tutorial about Strawberry and Basil Jam
Source: Wyse Guide
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