I love making homemade jams and preserves. There’s something so satisfying about capturing the flavors of fresh fruits and turning them into delicious spreads that can be enjoyed throughout the year. And today, I want to share with you my favorite method of making strawberry jam – in the microwave! Yes, you read that right. Making strawberry jam in the microwave is quick, easy, and yields incredible results. So grab some strawberries and let’s get started!
Gather Your Ingredients
Before we jump into the recipe, let’s gather all the ingredients we’ll need. For this microwave strawberry jam recipe, you’ll need:
– Fresh strawberries: 2 pounds
– Granulated sugar: 2 cups
– Lemon juice: 2 tablespoons
Prepare the Strawberries
Strawberries are the star of this jam, so it’s important to use fresh and ripe berries for the best flavor. Start by washing and drying the strawberries. Then remove the stems and any blemishes from the fruit. Once the strawberries are prepped, cut them into small pieces. I like to slice them in half or quarter them depending on their size.
Mix the Ingredients Together
In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the prepared strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir everything together until the sugar begins to dissolve. This mixture will macerate the strawberries and draw out their natural juices, creating a flavorful syrup.
Cook in the Microwave
Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape. Place the bowl in the microwave and cook on high power for 10 minutes. After the 10 minutes, carefully remove the bowl from the microwave and give the mixture a good stir.
Final Cooking and Testing
Return the bowl to the microwave and cook on high power for an additional 12-15 minutes, stirring every 3-4 minutes. Keep a close eye on the jam during this stage to prevent it from overflowing or burning. As the jam cooks, it will thicken and start to resemble the texture of traditional strawberry jam.
After the cooking time is up, it’s time to test the jam for doneness. This can be done using the plate test. Simply place a small amount of the jam onto a chilled plate and let it cool for a minute. Then, run your finger through the jam, and if it leaves a trail without immediately filling back in, your jam is ready. If it’s still too runny, return it to the microwave for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Store and Enjoy
Once your strawberry jam reaches the desired consistency, carefully transfer it into clean glass jars. Allow the jam to cool completely before sealing the jars and storing them in the refrigerator. This microwave strawberry jam will stay fresh for up to three weeks.
Now that you have your homemade strawberry jam ready to go, the possibilities are endless. Spread it on toast, dollop it on pancakes, or swirl it into yogurt. You can even use it to make a delicious jam-filled cake or as a topping for ice cream. The choice is yours!
In conclusion, making strawberry jam in the microwave is a quick and easy process that allows you to enjoy the flavors of summer all year round. With just a few simple ingredients and a microwave, you can create a delicious homemade jam in no time. So grab some fresh strawberries and give this microwave strawberry jam recipe a try. I guarantee you won’t be disappointed!