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STRAWBERRY JAM WITH A TWIST – OUR FAVORITE WINTER PROVISION

By Delicious Recipes!Posted on
STRAWBERRY JAM WITH A TWIST – OUR FAVORITE WINTER PROVISION

STRAWBERRY JAM WITH A TWIST – OUR FAVORITE WINTER PROVISION

A classic strawberry jam recipe elevated with a surprising hint of orange liqueur and freshly ground black pepper. This intriguing combination makes it our favorite jam to stock for winter.

🕒 Prep Time: 12 hours (including maceration)

🍳 Cook Time: 50 minutes
🍽️ Yield: 2 jars of 370 ml each

Ingredients

  • 1.2 kg fresh strawberries (hulled and cut as needed)
  • 500 g sugar
  • 60 ml orange liqueur (Cointreau)
  • 2 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt

Instructions

  1. Select ripe strawberries, rinse quickly under cold water, hull, and cut into halves or quarters (leave small berries whole).
  2. Toss strawberries with 30 ml Cointreau and lemon juice. Sprinkle sugar over and let macerate at room temperature for 12 hours.
  3. Pre-chill 2–3 small plates in the freezer for jam testing.
  4. Sterilize two 370 ml jars by washing, drying, and heating in a 200°C oven for 20 minutes. Coordinate sterilization with jam cooking time to fill jars hot.
  5. Transfer macerated strawberries and juice to a wide pot. Add salt.
  6. Cook over medium heat for 30 minutes until the syrup reduces and jam darkens to a rich, deep red. Stir occasionally.
  7. Lower heat and simmer for another 20 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. Skim off pink foam as it forms.
  8. Test jam readiness by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and returning it to the freezer for 1 minute. Tilt the plate; if jam wrinkles and does not run, it’s ready. If not, cook 5 more minutes and test again.
  9. When jam sets, stir in the remaining 30 ml Cointreau and freshly ground black pepper. Boil on high for 2 more minutes.
  10. Pour hot jam into sterilized hot jars. Wipe rims clean and seal tightly.
  11. Invert jars on lids for 10 minutes to create a vacuum seal.
  12. Wrap jars in a blanket and let cool overnight in a dry, draft-free place.
  13. Store in a cool cellar or pantry.

💡 Tips

  • Maceration softens strawberries and enhances flavor.
  • Foam removal keeps jam clear and visually appealing.
  • Test jam on chilled plates to ensure perfect set.
  • Fresh black pepper adds unexpected depth and complexity.
  • Coordinate jar sterilization with cooking for best results.

🍽️ Perfect For

  • Spreading on fresh bread or toast
  • Stirring into yogurt or desserts
  • A sophisticated gift for jam lovers

📝 Final Thoughts

This strawberry jam combines tradition with a twist, creating a uniquely flavorful and aromatic preserve that brightens winter days.