Last weekend I was in Whole Foods looking at some delicous looking strawberries when the woman standing next to me mentioned she had been coming every week to the store for these strawberries because they were so good. That did it! My indecision was over and I bought 3 baskets! I tasted a few when I got home and decided I'd make these babies last by making Strawberry Freezer jam.
Years ago I'd made it and remeber it being unbelievably fresh tasting. It truely elevated toast to some heavenly morning dessert. It would also be wonderfull as a filling in a Victorian sponge cake, or stirred into yogurt.
Checking the recipe I realized I didn't have any fruit pectin...why would I? I haven't canned or frozen anything in years-but I remebered this freezer jam was pretty easy. So off to the store to buy fruit pectin. I found the pectin, but there were several kinds. I noticed No Cook Freezer Jam Fruit Pectin made by Ball @ $1.99. No Cook? That got me thinking this could be easier than I had first anticipated. How often does that happen?
I just follwed the directions on the package...
I washed and hulled & crushed my strawberries till I had the required 4 cups. Next you mix the package of the no cook fruit pectin with 1 1/2 cups sugar, and then add the 4 cups crushed strawberries and stir for three minutes. Next, you ladle jam into Ball's 8 ounce plastic freezer jars (which I happen to already have). You could use other plactic jars but the Ball jars are so cute and I love how the lids twist on. You let it set for 30 minutes and freeze, or you can use it right away. Which I did promptly! (on toast) Did I mention this elevates the toast experience to a new level? Keeps in the fridge for up to 3 weeks or in the freezer for up to a year. I guarantee that stuff will not be in my freezer for long. This was so easy that I may just have to go crazy and make more more more! You can also do this with other tender type fruits: apricots, cherries, berries, grapes, pears, plums). You can also watch a video demonstration at: www.freshpreserving.com
