Strawberry basil jam is a delightful twist on a classic favorite. Combining the sweetness of ripe strawberries with the fresh, aromatic notes of basil creates a unique flavor that’s perfect for breakfast or snacks. It’s the kind of jam that elevates simple toast or pairs beautifully with cheese.
Making this jam at home is easier than you might think. With just a few ingredients and straightforward steps, we can capture the vibrant taste of summer in a jar. Whether you’re new to jam-making or looking to try something new, this recipe offers a fresh take that’s both delicious and versatile.
Ingredients
To create our Strawberry Basil Jam, we select fresh and high-quality ingredients that perfectly balance sweetness and herbal aroma. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the jam’s vibrant flavor and smooth texture.
Fresh Strawberries
We start with 2 pounds of fresh strawberries, hulled and rinsed thoroughly. Fresh strawberries provide the natural sweetness and juicy base essential for a rich, luscious jam. Using ripe berries ensures our jam bursts with intense strawberry flavor and bright red color.
Fresh Basil Leaves
For the herbaceous twist, we include 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh basil leaves. Basil infuses the jam with an aromatic complexity that complements the strawberries without overpowering them. We recommend using young, tender leaves for the best flavor and vibrant green color.
Sugar
Sugar is key to sweetness and preservation. We use 2 cups of granulated sugar to balance the natural tartness of strawberries and accentuate the basil’s freshness. Precise measurement ensures proper consistency and shelf life.
Lemon Juice
To enhance the jam’s brightness and aid in setting, we add 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice. The acidity helps preserve color and promotes gel formation during cooking, giving our jam a perfect spreadable texture.
Pectin (Optional)
For those who prefer a firmer jam, 1 tablespoon of powdered fruit pectin is optional. Pectin accelerates the thickening process and stabilizes the jam, especially useful if strawberries are less ripe or low in natural pectin.
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Strawberries | 2 pounds (hulled, rinsed) | Use ripe and flavorful berries |
| Fresh Basil Leaves | 1/4 cup (finely chopped) | Tender, young leaves preferred |
| Sugar | 2 cups granulated | Balances tartness and sweetness |
| Lemon Juice | 3 tablespoons fresh | Enhances flavor and sets jam |
| Pectin (Optional) | 1 tablespoon powdered | For firmer jam texture |
Equipment Needed
To create the perfect Strawberry Basil Jam, having the right equipment is essential. Using proper tools ensures the jam sets well and results in a vibrant, flavorful finished product.
Pots and Pans
We recommend a large heavy-bottomed pot or saucepan for cooking the jam mixture. The heavy bottom prevents scorching and allows for even heat distribution during simmering. Choose a pot that can hold at least 4 quarts to comfortably accommodate the 2 pounds of strawberries and other ingredients.
Sterilized Jars and Lids
Sterilized jars and lids are crucial for safely preserving Strawberry Basil Jam. We suggest using:
| Equipment | Capacity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Mason jars | 8 oz or 16 oz | Storing jam securely |
| New metal lids | Standard canning size | Ensures airtight seal |
Sterilize jars by boiling them in water for 10 minutes or running them through a hot dishwasher cycle. Keep the jars warm until filling to prevent breakage.
Wooden Spoon
A Wooden Spoon is preferred for stirring the jam while it cooks. It resists heat well, does not react with the acidic lemon juice, and allows us to gently mix without damaging the fruit pieces.
Ladle
Use a Ladle with a long handle to transfer hot jam from the pot to the sterilized jars safely. This tool helps avoid spills and ensures even portions.
Candy Thermometer (Optional)
For those who prefer precision, a candy thermometer is useful to monitor the jam’s temperature. The jam should reach around 220°F (104°C) to set properly. While not mandatory, this tool is helpful for consistent results.
Tip: If you don’t have a candy thermometer, use the wrinkle test by placing a small spoonful of jam on a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed after cooling, the jam is ready.
Preparation
Let’s begin by getting all the fresh ingredients and equipment ready to ensure our Strawberry Basil Jam turns out perfectly balanced and flavorful.
Preparing the Strawberries
First, we carefully handle the star of our recipe—the fresh strawberries. Follow these steps:
- Measure 2 pounds of fresh strawberries.
- Rinse them thoroughly under cold water to remove any dirt or residues.
- Hull each strawberry by removing the green leafy tops and cores using a paring knife or strawberry huller.
- Depending on size, halve or quarter the strawberries for even cooking and easy mashing later.
This preparation unlocks the juicy sweetness essential for our jam’s rich base.
Washing and Chopping the Basil
Next, we prepare the fresh basil, which adds the signature herbal aroma:
- Take 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves.
- Rinse the leaves under cool running water.
- Gently pat the leaves dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towel.
- Finely chop the basil leaves to release their fragrance while avoiding bruising.
This fine chopping enhances the infusion of basil’s vibrant flavor into the jam without overpowering the strawberries.
Sterilizing the Jars
Proper jar sterilization is critical for safe preservation and maintaining freshness:
| Step | Procedure |
|---|---|
| Choose jars | Select 8 oz or 16 oz mason jars with new metal lids. |
| Wash jars | Wash jars and lids with hot soapy water and rinse thoroughly. |
| Sterilize jars | Boil jars and lids in water for 10 minutes to kill bacteria. |
| Dry jars | Place jars upside down on a clean towel to air dry or dry in a warm oven at 225°F for 10 minutes. |
| Keep warm | Keep jars warm until filling to prevent cracking and ensure jam stays hot. |
“Sterilizing is not optional—it preserves the freshness and safety of our homemade jam.” Following these steps helps us achieve a perfectly sealed and long-lasting Strawberry Basil Jam.
Cooking Instructions
Let’s make our strawberry basil jam come to life by carefully combining the ingredients, cooking the mixture perfectly, and testing for the ideal consistency. Follow these steps precisely to capture that vibrant summer flavor.
Combining Ingredients
- Place 2 pounds of hulled and rinsed fresh strawberries into a large heavy-bottomed pot. The berries provide the sweet, juicy base for our jam.
- Add 2 cups of granulated sugar gradually to the pot. This not only sweetens but also acts as a preservative.
- Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of powdered fruit pectin if you want a firmer jam texture. This is optional but highly recommended for a classic jam firmness.
- Stir in 1/4 cup of finely chopped fresh basil leaves to infuse that aromatic herbal complexity.
- Finally, pour 3 tablespoons of freshly squeezed lemon juice to brighten the flavors and aid in the setting process.
Tip: Stir the ingredients gently but thoroughly to evenly distribute sugar and basil without mashing the strawberries.
Cooking the Jam Mixture
- Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a full rolling boil, stirring frequently with a wooden spoon.
- Once boiling, reduce heat slightly to maintain a steady boil. Keep stirring to prevent the jam from sticking to the bottom and scorching.
- Continue boiling for 10 to 15 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and bubbles visibly slow down.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the surface with a slotted spoon to keep the jam clear and visually appealing.
Testing for Doneness
To ensure our strawberry basil jam has reached the perfect spreadable consistency, perform one or both of these tests:
| Test Type | Method | Expected Result |
|---|---|---|
| Wrinkle Test | Place 1 teaspoon of jam on a chilled plate. Wait 1–2 minutes. Push jam with finger. | Jam surface wrinkles and resists pushing, indicating proper set. |
| Temperature Test | Use a candy thermometer to monitor the jam’s temperature. | Jam should reach 220°F (104°C) for proper gelling. |
Remember: If the jam isn’t ready, return to a boil and test again after a few minutes.
Once tested and confirmed, remove the pot from heat and let the jam sit for 5 minutes before ladling into sterilized jars.
Canning and Storage
Proper Canning and Storage are vital for preserving the fresh flavors of our strawberry basil jam and ensuring it stays safe to enjoy over time. Let’s walk through the essential steps to successfully store our homemade jam.
Filling the Jars
We begin by carefully filling the sterilized jars with the hot jam. Use a ladle with a long handle to pour the jam into each jar, leaving about 1/4 inch headspace at the top. This gap is crucial to accommodate expansion during sealing and prevent overflow.
- Avoid air bubbles by gently tapping the jars or stirring the jam with a non-metallic spatula inside the jar.
- Wipe the jar rims clean with a damp, lint-free towel to ensure a proper seal.
Tip: Filling jars while the jam is hot helps create a vacuum seal as the jam cools.
Sealing the Jars
Once filled, place the lids on the jars. Use new metal lids designed for canning and screw on the metal bands firmly but not overly tight—tighten just enough to hold the lids in place.
We then process the jars immediately in a boiling water bath to create a strong vacuum seal. Fully submerge the jars in boiling water for 10 minutes (adjusting for altitude as needed). This kills any remaining bacteria and secures the seal.
| Step | Detail |
|---|---|
| Metal lids | Use new lids each time to ensure airtight sealing |
| Band tightness | Screw bands finger-tight—not overly tight or loose |
| Boiling time | 10 minutes full immersion in boiling water bath |
Reminder: ALTITUDE adjustment is critical. Add 1-2 extra minutes per 1,000 feet above sea level.
Cooling and Storing
After processing, carefully remove jars with jar lifters and place them on a towel-lined surface. Let them cool undisturbed for 12 to 24 hours.
- You should hear the satisfying “pop” sound as lids seal.
- Press the center of each lid to test the seal; it should not flex up or down.
- Label jars with the date and contents.
Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place like a pantry or cupboard. Properly sealed and stored jam lasts up to 1 year. Once opened, refrigerate and consume within 3 weeks.
| Storage Condition | Duration |
|---|---|
| Sealed, cool, dark place | Up to 1 year |
| Opened, refrigerated | Up to 3 weeks |
Remember: Any jars that fail to seal should be refrigerated and used promptly or reprocessed.
Serving Suggestions
Enjoying our Strawberry Basil Jam opens up a delicious world of options that complement breakfast, snacks, and even desserts. Here are some inspired ways to savor its vibrant flavors.
Pairing Ideas
Our Strawberry Basil Jam pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes to enhance their flavor profile. Consider these classic and creative options:
- Fresh toast or croissants: Spread a generous layer on warm buttered bread for a simple yet indulgent start.
- Cheese boards: Pair with creamy cheeses like goat cheese, brie, or ricotta to balance sweet and savory notes.
- Yogurt or oatmeal: Stir into plain Greek yogurt or morning oatmeal to add a fresh fruity twist.
- Grilled meats: Use as a glaze or condiment on grilled chicken or pork for a sweet-herbaceous punch.
- Ice cream topping: Drizzle over vanilla ice cream for a summer-inspired dessert.
| Food Item | Suggested Use | Flavor Combo Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh toast | Spread on warm bread or croissant | Enhances buttery texture with fruity zest |
| Cheese | Serve alongside creamy cheeses | Balances savory richness with herbal sweetness |
| Yogurt/Oatmeal | Stir into plain yogurt or oatmeal | Adds freshness and natural sweetness |
| Grilled meats | Glaze or condiment | Compliments smoky and savory flavors |
| Ice cream | Drizzle as a topping | Creates a refreshing summer dessert |
Recipes Using Strawberry Basil Jam
We love incorporating our Strawberry Basil Jam into a variety of creative recipes that highlight its bright sweet and herbaceous character:
- Jam-filled Thumbprint Cookies: Spoon a dollop of jam into the center of buttery cookie dough before baking for a sweet, fresh surprise.
- Strawberry Basil Jam Glazed Chicken: Mix jam with balsamic vinegar and brush over chicken breasts before grilling.
- Breakfast Parfait: Layer Greek yogurt, granola, and jam in a glass for a quick energy-boosting meal.
- Cheese and Jam Tart: Spread the jam over puff pastry, top with crumbled goat cheese, and bake until golden for an elegant appetizer.
- Cocktail Mixer: Use jam as a syrup to stir into cocktails like gin and tonic or sparkling wine.
“Our Strawberry Basil Jam serves as a versatile ingredient that elevates everyday dishes into memorable moments.”
Each suggested recipe showcases the jam’s balance of juicy sweetness and aromatic basil to add depth and freshness to your culinary creations.
Tips and Variations
Mastering our Strawberry Basil Jam Recipe allows us to customize it perfectly to our taste and dietary preferences. Below are essential tips and creative twists to enhance our jam-making experience.
Adjusting the Sweetness
Balancing sweetness is key to highlighting the fresh flavors of strawberries and basil. We can tailor sugar quantities based on preference or the natural sweetness of the fruit.
| Sweetness Level | Sugar Amount (cups) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Less Sweet | 1 to 1 1/2 | For a lighter taste, reduce sugar gradually |
| Standard (Original) | 2 | Perfect balance for most palates |
| Sweeter | 2 1/2 to 3 | Use if strawberries are tart or for longer preservation |
Tip: Gradually reduce sugar by 1/4 cup increments and taste test during cooking to avoid over-altering the jam’s texture.
Alternative Herbs
While basil defines this jam’s unique flavor, experimenting with other fresh herbs can create interesting variations that still complement strawberries beautifully.
- Mint: Adds a cooling freshness perfect for summer spreads or drinks.
- Thyme: Imparts an earthy note, ideal for savory pairings.
- Lavender: Introduces a floral aroma, enriching desserts.
- Lemon Balm: Offers citrusy undertones enhancing brightness.
We recommend finely chopping no more than 1/4 cup of any herb to maintain balance without overpowering the strawberry’s sweetness.
Making Jam Without Pectin
If we prefer a more natural jam or do not have powdered fruit pectin on hand, we can still achieve great results by relying on the natural pectin in strawberries and slow cooking.
- Use the freshest, ripest strawberries for highest natural pectin.
- Increase lemon juice to 4 tablespoons to boost acidity and gelling.
- Cook the mixture longer — approximately 30 to 40 minutes — stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Test doneness with the wrinkle test: place a small amount on a chilled plate and push it; if it wrinkles, the jam is ready.
Note: Jam made without pectin tends to be softer and spreadable, ideal for morning toast or mixing into yogurt.
Our Strawberry Basil Jam is flexible and open to creative customization while ensuring a delightful balance of sweet, herbal, and tangy flavors with every batch we make.
Conclusion
Making strawberry basil jam at home is a rewarding way to capture the vibrant flavors of summer. With just a few fresh ingredients and simple steps, we can create a versatile jam that elevates everything from breakfast to dinner.
By following proper preparation and preservation techniques, our homemade jam stays fresh and delicious for months. Whether we enjoy it on toast or get creative with recipes, this unique blend of sweet and herbal notes adds a special touch to any dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes strawberry basil jam unique in flavor?
Strawberry basil jam blends the sweet, juicy taste of strawberries with the fresh, aromatic notes of basil, offering a refreshing twist that’s both sweet and herbaceous.
What are the main ingredients needed to make strawberry basil jam?
The key ingredients include fresh strawberries, finely chopped basil leaves, granulated sugar, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and optionally, powdered fruit pectin for a firmer texture.
What equipment do I need to make this jam at home?
You’ll need a large heavy-bottomed pot, sterilized mason jars with metal lids, a wooden spoon, a long-handled ladle, and optionally a candy thermometer.
How do I prepare the strawberries and basil before cooking?
Rinse, hull, and chop the strawberries, then wash and finely chop the basil leaves to maximize flavor infusion in the jam.
How do I know when the jam is cooked and ready?
The jam is ready when it reaches the right consistency, which you can test using the wrinkle test on a chilled plate or by ensuring it reaches about 220°F (104°C) with a candy thermometer.
How should I can and store the strawberry basil jam?
Fill sterilized jars with hot jam, leaving a 1/4 inch headspace, seal them with new lids, process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, then cool undisturbed and store in a cool, dark place.
How long does homemade strawberry basil jam last?
Properly sealed jars last up to one year unopened. After opening, refrigerate and consume within three weeks.
Can strawberry basil jam be used in recipes besides spreading?
Yes, it works great as a glaze for meats, a topping for yogurt or ice cream, in baked goods, or even cocktails.
How can I customize my strawberry basil jam?
Adjust sugar levels to taste, experiment with herbs like mint or thyme, or skip pectin for a softer jam with a more natural texture.
What safety measures should I follow when canning this jam?
Always sterilize jars and lids, ensure airtight seals, process jars appropriately in a boiling water bath, and check seals before storage to prevent spoilage.