This Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is a perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that is sure to brighten up any breakfast or dessert table. The fresh strawberries and rhubarb create a beautiful, vibrant color that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.
Perfect for spreading on toast, adding to yogurt, or drizzling over desserts, this homemade jam is versatile and easy to make. Its refreshing flavor will remind you of summer all year long, and it also makes for a thoughtful gift when packaged in cute jars. You can store it in the fridge or process it for longer shelf life—either way, it’s bound to be a hit!
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
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2 cups rhubarb, chopped
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1 1/2 cups sugar
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1/4 cup water
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1 tablespoon lemon juice
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1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Directions:
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In a large saucepan, combine the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, and water.
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Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
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Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring frequently until the jam thickens.
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Stir in the lemon juice and vanilla extract, and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
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Remove from heat and let the jam cool slightly.
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Pour the jam into sterilized jars and seal with lids. Allow it to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 55 kcal per tablespoon | Servings: 16 servings
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam: A Delightful Homemade Treat
Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is a wonderful blend of two classic ingredients that bring both sweetness and tartness together in a perfect harmony. This jam is an old-fashioned favorite, often made during the summer months when strawberries and rhubarb are in season. The resulting spread is perfect for toast, scones, or as a topping for desserts.
Making jam at home is a rewarding experience, allowing you to control the ingredients and adjust the flavors to your liking. Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is one of those recipes that brings joy not only because of the final product but also because of the nostalgic process of canning and preserving. Whether you’re new to jam-making or a seasoned pro, this recipe will provide you with a delicious, versatile spread that you can enjoy year-round.
The Magic of Strawberry and Rhubarb Pairing
What makes strawberry and rhubarb such a perfect pairing? The natural sweetness of strawberries balances the tartness of rhubarb, creating a delicious contrast that keeps your taste buds excited with every bite. Rhubarb, often considered a vegetable, has a tangy, almost sour flavor, which might initially seem intimidating. However, when combined with the sweetness of strawberries and sugar, it transforms into a perfectly balanced, smooth spread. This balance is what makes strawberry rhubarb jam so beloved by many.
Rhubarb is also rich in antioxidants, fiber, and vitamins, making it a surprisingly nutritious addition to the jam. When paired with the vitamin-packed strawberries, this jam becomes more than just a treat; it’s a delicious way to add a little extra goodness to your day. The natural acidity in rhubarb also helps preserve the jam, giving it a long shelf life when stored properly.
The Joy of Homemade Jam
Making your own jam can feel like a lost art in today’s world, where store-bought spreads dominate supermarket shelves. However, there’s something special about the process of cooking your own jam. The rich aroma that fills your kitchen as the fruit mixture simmers on the stove is enough to make anyone smile. The process is simple but requires patience and attention to detail. Once you master the technique, you can customize your jams, experimenting with different fruits, spices, and even less sugar if that’s your preference.
Additionally, making your own jam allows you to avoid the preservatives and artificial flavors often found in store-bought varieties. With just a few basic ingredients, you create a truly wholesome spread. For many, there is also an element of nostalgia associated with homemade jam-making. It’s a tradition passed down through generations, and making it yourself allows you to connect with those memories while creating something delicious for your family to enjoy.
Perfect for Any Time of Day
One of the best things about Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is its versatility. It works beautifully in many different contexts, making it a great addition to your breakfast table, afternoon tea, or dessert spread.
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Breakfast: Start your day by spreading this jam on a piece of toast or a warm biscuit. Pair it with a cup of tea or coffee for a satisfying, comforting start to your morning. The tangy flavor of the rhubarb combined with the sweetness of the strawberries can awaken your senses and add a touch of joy to your routine.
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Snacks and Desserts: Beyond breakfast, this jam makes a fantastic topping for yogurt, pancakes, waffles, or even ice cream. It can be incorporated into desserts like tarts or used as a filling for cakes and pastries. The balance of sweet and tart makes it a versatile choice for both savory and sweet dishes.
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Gifting: Homemade jam also makes for an excellent gift. It’s thoughtful, personal, and can be beautifully packaged in jars with decorative lids and labels. Gifting a jar of homemade Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is an ideal way to share the joy of homemade goodness with friends and family during the holidays or for special occasions.
The Canning Process: A Tradition Worth Preserving
Canning is an essential part of making Strawberry Rhubarb Jam and many other preserves. It’s a process that allows you to store your homemade jam for months, ensuring you can enjoy it long after the strawberry and rhubarb seasons have passed. While some people may feel intimidated by the idea of canning, it’s a relatively simple and safe process when done correctly.
The canning process involves sterilizing jars, cooking the jam to the right consistency, and then sealing the jars so the jam can be stored without refrigeration for long periods. This preservation method keeps the flavor and nutrients intact, and the jam will last for months when stored in a cool, dark place.
One of the most rewarding aspects of canning is that it’s a skill that can be passed down from generation to generation. Learning how to make your own preserves can become a cherished tradition in your family, creating memories and delicious treats to share with loved ones for years to come.
Adjusting the Recipe to Your Taste
One of the great aspects of making homemade jam is the ability to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences. If you prefer a less sweet jam, simply reduce the amount of sugar. You can also experiment with adding spices such as cinnamon, ginger, or vanilla to enhance the flavor of the jam. Some people like to add a splash of lemon juice to heighten the tartness, while others might enjoy the jam with a little more sweetness.
For a more modern twist, try using natural sweeteners like honey, maple syrup, or agave syrup instead of refined sugar. Each sweetener brings its own unique flavor profile and can make your jam even more special. However, keep in mind that substituting sweeteners might affect the consistency of the jam, so it’s best to follow a recipe specifically designed for those ingredients if you want to make significant changes.
If you want to experiment with different fruit combinations, this jam can serve as a base for various fruity jams. Try combining strawberries and raspberries, or mix in some blueberries for a new twist. You can even add a bit of citrus zest or a splash of liqueur for added flavor.
The Benefits of Homemade Jam
The benefits of making your own jam go beyond just the enjoyment of a delicious spread. Homemade jam is a healthier option compared to store-bought varieties that are often loaded with preservatives and artificial additives. By making it yourself, you can control the ingredients, ensuring there are no unnecessary additives, colors, or flavors.
Additionally, making your own jam is a more sustainable option. You can buy local, in-season fruits, supporting local farmers and reducing your carbon footprint. Canning also reduces food waste, as it allows you to preserve fruit that might otherwise go unused or spoil. Homemade jam is also a great way to preserve seasonal fruits, so you can enjoy the tastes of summer even in the dead of winter.
Conclusion
Making Strawberry Rhubarb Jam at home is not only a rewarding and delicious experience but also a chance to embrace a tradition of canning and preserving that has been cherished for generations. The sweet and tart combination of strawberries and rhubarb makes this jam a perfect addition to your pantry. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, topping a dessert, or gifting it to loved ones, Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is sure to bring smiles to all who taste it.
The process of creating your own homemade jam allows you to adjust flavors, experiment with ingredients, and ensure the use of quality, natural ingredients. It’s a process that brings joy and satisfaction, whether you’re making a batch for yourself or sharing it with others. So, the next time you find yourself with a bounty of fresh strawberries and rhubarb, consider making this delightful jam—your taste buds will thank you.
The best part? You can enjoy the fruits of your labor all year round, long after the seasons have passed, knowing you’ve created something truly special.