Homemade Strawberry Preserve @ DELFLYN'S KITCHEN

 

There is something special about biting into a slice of warm toast topped with a dollop of sweet and tangy strawberry preserve. The burst of juicy flavor and the satisfaction of knowing it's made with love - is an experience by itself. 

Today I am excited to share with you my simple yet delightful recipe perfect to spread on your favorite breakfast treats or as a topping for desserts. So, let's get jamming. 

To make this delicious preserve, you will need some fresh, plump and ripe strawberries.

Give the strawberries a good rinse under cold running water to remove any dirt or impurities.

Gently pat them dry with a kitchen towel to remove excess moisture.

Now, carefully cut and remove the green calyx (leaves) from the top of each strawberry and slice into pieces.

The strawberries are now ready to be transformed into a sweet and tangy preserve.

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 cups of fresh strawberries cleaned and sliced

• 1 cup granulated sugar 

• Juice of 1 lemon squeezed

• A pinch of salt to balance out the sweetness

METHOD:

In a large saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice and a pinch of salt. 
Let the mixture boil, reduce the heat to medium - low and simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes.
Cook the mixture over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar has dissolved, and the strawberries start to release their juices. 

As it boils, froth will form on the surface, which should be removed carefully using a long-handled ladle. Continue to skim off the froth with the ladle until the preserve is clear and free of foam.

Cook till it thickens. To check if it's ready, place a teaspoon of the boiling strawberry juice on a saucer, and then run your finger through the juice. If it forms a clear, defined line that doesn't immediately fill back in, then the preserve is ready. It's essential to monitor the cooking time and test it, to achieve perfect consistency. 

Remove the pan from the heat and let the preserve cool.

Transfer it to a dry glass jar.

The preserve can be stored in the fridge for several weeks.

By making your own strawberry preserve, you can avoid artificial preservatives, additive and flavor enhancers that are commonly found in commercial products.

The ultimate tip: imagine plucking fresh, juicy strawberries from your own garden, right in your backyard or even on your balcony. Growing your own strawberries is easier than you think, and it's the best way to ensure that you have fresh, nutritious berries for your homemade preserves.