We absolutely love strawberry basil jam for its fresh, unexpected twist on a timeless favorite. This vibrant spread combines the juicy sweetness of ripe strawberries with the herbaceous kick of basil, creating a flavor that’s perfect for summer mornings or elegant brunches. It’s our go-to recipe that elevates simple meals into something special.
Originating from creative home kitchens, we’ve found this jam easy to whip up with just a few fresh ingredients. Whether you’re a jam novice or a seasoned pro, it’ll add a burst of flavor to your toast, yogurt, or even cheese platters, making it a must-try in our recipe collection.
Ingredients
In our Strawberry Basil Jam recipe, we select high-quality ingredients to capture the vibrant sweetness of fresh strawberries and the aromatic herbal notes of basil. Below, we list them in the order they are used, with prep specifics noted for precision and ease.
- Fresh strawberries: 2 pounds, washed, hulled, and quartered to ensure even cooking and flavor release.
- Fresh basil leaves: 1 cup, finely chopped for infusing herbaceous depth right before the jam sets.
- Granulated sugar: 4 cups, to balance acidity and achieve the perfect thick consistency.
- Fresh lemon juice: ¼ cup, freshly squeezed to provide natural pectin and a tangy brightness that enhances the jam’s flavor profile.
- Pectin: 1 packet (about 1.75 ounces), if needed for firmer setting—we recommend low-sugar pectin for a lighter version.
This combination yields approximately 4-5 jars of jam, making it ideal for preserving summer’s bounty. For optimal results, source organic produce to elevate the taste and quality of our Strawberry Basil Jam.
Equipment Needed
To prepare our delicious Strawberry Basil Jam, we gather essential tools that ensure a smooth and safe cooking process. Building on our ingredients list, which includes fresh strawberries and basil, these items help us achieve the perfect blend of sweet and herbaceous flavors.
Here’s a detailed list of the equipment we recommend:
- Large Stock Pot: We use a 6-8 quart stainless steel or enamel pot for cooking the jam mixture. This allows even heating to prevent scorching and ensures the strawberries and basil infuse properly.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: Essential for stirring the jam as it simmers. We prefer a heat-resistant tool to avoid damaging non-stick surfaces while blending the vibrant flavors.
- Sharp Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board: We need these for precisely chopping the 2 pounds of fresh strawberries and finely dicing the 1 cup of basil leaves, maximizing their fresh taste and aroma.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key for our recipe. We rely on a set of dry and liquid measuring cups plus spoons to portion out the 4 cups of granulated sugar and ¼ cup of lemon juice.
- Canning Jars and Lids (4-5, 8-ounce size): We use sterilized glass jars with airtight lids to store the finished jam, yielding approximately 4-5 jars as noted in our ingredients section.
- Funnel and Ladle: For safely transferring the hot jam into jars without spills. We find this duo invaluable for clean, efficient preservation.
- Candy Thermometer: We recommend this to monitor the jam’s temperature, ensuring it reaches the ideal setting point for a firm texture when using pectin.
With these tools in hand, we transition seamlessly to the preparation steps, making our Strawberry Basil Jam recipe accessible and enjoyable for all.
Instructions
Let’s guide you through creating our vibrant Strawberry Basil Jam, blending the sweet tartness of fresh strawberries with the aromatic essence of basil for a burst of summer flavor. With these straightforward steps, we’ll ensure your homemade jam turns out perfectly every time.
Prepare the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our fresh ingredients to maximize their flavors and ensure even cooking. Begin by washing 2 pounds of fresh strawberries under cool water to remove any dirt, then hull and slice them into quarters for quick release of their juicy sweetness—envision the bright red fruit glistening and releasing a fragrant, summery aroma.
Next, take 1 cup of basil leaves, finely chop them to release their herbaceous notes, and set aside. Measure out 4 cups of granulated sugar for the perfect balance of sweetness, ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice to add a zesty tang that enhances the strawberries’ natural acidity, and 1 packet of pectin if you prefer a firmer set. Organize everything on your cutting board for easy access, as this prep sets the stage for a smooth process and yields approximately 4-5 jars of jam.
| Item | Quantity | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh strawberries | 2 pounds | Wash, hull, and quarter |
| Basil leaves | 1 cup | Finely chopped |
| Granulated sugar | 4 cups | For sweetness |
| Lemon juice | ¼ cup | Freshly squeezed |
| Pectin | 1 packet (optional) | For firmer setting |
Cook the Jam
We’ll combine our prepped ingredients in a large stock pot and cook them to achieve that ideal thick, glossy consistency. Add the sliced strawberries, chopped basil, sugar, and lemon juice to the pot, stirring gently with a wooden spoon to coat everything evenly—feel the mixture begin to bubble as the strawberries soften and release their vivid, syrupy juices, infusing the air with a delightful herbal sweetness.
Heat the mixture over medium-high heat until it reaches a rolling boil, then maintain that boil for about 10-15 minutes while stirring constantly to prevent sticking. If using pectin, stir it in now and continue boiling until the temperature hits 220°F (105°C) on your candy thermometer for the perfect set. Test for doneness by placing a small amount on a chilled plate; it should wrinkle slightly when pushed—imagine the jam’s rich, aromatic steam rising, creating a sensory symphony of strawberry and basil that promises to elevate your breakfasts.
| Cooking Stage | Time | Temperature | Key Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Boil | 5 minutes | N/A | Stir to dissolve sugar |
| Rolling Boil | 10-15 minutes | 220°F (105°C) | Add pectin if used |
| Doneness Test | 1 minute | N/A | Check for wrinkle |
Jar and Store
Once the jam is cooked to perfection, we’ll transfer it into sterilized canning jars to preserve its fresh flavors and extend its shelf life. Carefully ladle the hot jam into the jars using a funnel, leaving about ½ inch of headspace at the top to allow for proper sealing—picture the jars filling with this glossy, ruby-red mixture, capturing the essence of sun-ripened strawberries and fragrant basil for months ahead.
Wipe the jar rims clean, apply the lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure safety and longevity. Remove the jars and let them cool; you’ll hear the satisfying pop of sealing lids. Store the sealed jars in a cool, dark place for up to 1 year, yielding about 4-5 jars that make a versatile addition to toast, yogurt, or cheese platters. Always refrigerate after opening to maintain quality.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
To help us maximize the flavors of our Strawberry Basil Jam while ensuring it stays fresh and safe, we outline practical make-ahead strategies and reliable storage methods below. Let’s dive into the details for seamless preparation and preservation.
Make-Ahead Tips
We recommend prepping elements of our Strawberry Basil Jam in advance to streamline cooking, especially for busy mornings or gatherings. Follow these steps to maintain quality without compromising taste:
- Prepare the strawberries: Wash, hull, and slice 2 pounds of fresh strawberries up to 24 hours ahead. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to preserve their vibrant sweetness and prevent oxidation.
- Chop the basil: Finely chop 1 cup of basil leaves in advance, but do so no more than 4 hours before cooking to retain their herbaceous aroma and bright green color.
- Measure dry ingredients: Combine 4 cups of granulated sugar with 1 packet of pectin (if using) in a bowl the night before. This ensures accurate measurements and saves time during the cooking process.
- Juice the lemon: Squeeze and measure out ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice ahead of time, then store it in a sealed jar in the fridge to keep its tangy acidity intact.
By planning ahead, we enhance the efficiency of making our Strawberry Basil Jam, allowing the natural sweetness of strawberries to shine alongside the fresh basil notes.
Storage Tips
Proper storage is key to preserving the delightful balance of sweet and herbal flavors in our Strawberry Basil Jam. We focus on sterilization, sealing, and monitoring to extend shelf life and maintain safety.
First, ensure all jars are sterilized before filling. Submerge clean jars in boiling water for 10 minutes, then dry them upside down on a clean towel.
After cooking and testing the jam for doneness, ladle it into the hot sterilized jars, leaving ¼ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims, apply lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to create a secure seal.
For shelf life details, refer to the table below, which outlines storage durations based on conditions:
| Storage Method | Duration | Conditions and Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Unopened jars (pantry) | Up to 1 year | Store in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight to preserve the jam’s vibrant flavor and prevent spoilage. |
| Opened jars (refrigerator) | Up to 1 month | Keep refrigerated and use a clean spoon each time to avoid contamination, ensuring the herbaceous basil undertones remain fresh. |
| Freezer (for excess) | Up to 6 months | Freeze in airtight containers with headspace for expansion; thaw in the fridge overnight for the best texture and taste. |
Always check for signs of spoilage, such as mold or off odors, before consuming our Strawberry Basil Jam to enjoy its peak sensory appeal safely.
Conclusion
We’ve loved exploring this strawberry basil jam recipe and know it’ll become a favorite in your kitchen too. It’s a simple way to capture summer’s essence and add a fresh twist to everyday meals.
By trying it out, you’ll discover endless possibilities that elevate your dishes with vibrant flavors. Let’s keep the joy of homemade preserves alive in our routines.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Strawberry Basil Jam?
Strawberry Basil Jam is a fresh twist on traditional jam, combining the sweet tartness of strawberries with the aromatic herbs of basil. This vibrant preserve is perfect for summer breakfasts, enhancing dishes like toast, yogurt, or cheese platters. It’s a simple recipe that adds a unique flavor to your meals.
What ingredients are needed for Strawberry Basil Jam?
You’ll need 2 pounds of fresh strawberries, 1 cup of finely chopped basil leaves, 4 cups of granulated sugar, ¼ cup of freshly squeezed lemon juice, and optionally 1 packet of pectin for a firmer set. Using organic produce ensures the best taste and quality, yielding about 4-5 jars.
What equipment is required to make Strawberry Basil Jam?
Essential tools include a large stock pot for cooking, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, a sharp knife and cutting board for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, sterilized canning jars for storage, a funnel and ladle for filling, and a candy thermometer to monitor temperature.
How do I make Strawberry Basil Jam?
Start by washing, hulling, and slicing strawberries, then chop basil. Combine all ingredients in a stock pot, bring to a rolling boil while stirring, and cook until it reaches the desired consistency. Test for doneness, then jar and seal in sterilized containers for storage. The process is straightforward and takes about 30-45 minutes of active time.
How should I store Strawberry Basil Jam?
Store unopened jars in a cool, dark pantry for up to a year. Once opened, keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. For longer preservation, freeze excess jam for up to 6 months. Always use sterilized jars and proper seals to maintain freshness and safety.
Can I make Strawberry Basil Jam ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients like strawberries, basil, sugar, and lemon juice in advance to save time. This makes the cooking process quicker and easier, ideal for busy schedules. Prepared components can be refrigerated for up to 24 hours before cooking.
Is Strawberry Basil Jam suitable for beginners?
Absolutely, the recipe is simple and accessible for both beginners and experienced cooks. It uses basic steps and common ingredients, with clear instructions to guide you through preparation, cooking, and storage, making it a great starting point for homemade preserves.