Prepare the Fruit: Start by washing the strawberries and peaches. Remove the stems from the strawberries and chop them into small pieces. For the peaches, peel, pit, and chop them into similar-sized pieces.
Mix the Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries, chopped peaches, and sugar. Stir well to ensure that the fruit is coated with the sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to draw out the juices.
Add Lemon Juice: After the fruit has rested, add the lemon juice and stir to combine. The acidity from the lemon helps balance the sweetness and helps with preservation.
Cook the Mixture: Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Bring the fruit mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it cook for about 10-15 minutes. You can start testing the consistency of the jam after about 10 minutes.
Add Pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin and bring the mixture back to a full boil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the jam reaches the desired thickness.
Check for Doneness: To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through the jam. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, it’s done.
Jar the Jam: Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Pour the jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean cloth to remove any residue.
Seal and Store: Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until they are fingertip-tight. Process in a water bath canner for about 10 minutes for safe preservation. Once done, allow the jars to cool completely at room temperature.
Why You’ll Love This Strawberry Peach Jam
This Strawberry Peach Jam is not just a delicious spread; it brings the taste of summer right into your kitchen all year round. The combination of sweet strawberries and juicy peaches creates a vibrant flavor burst that is hard to resist. You can spread this jam on your morning toast, dollop it on pancakes, or even swirl it into yogurt. Making jams at home is also incredibly satisfying, and it allows you to control the ingredients, making it a healthier option compared to store-bought versions.
Nutriments benefits
Strawberries and peaches are not only tasty, but they are also packed with nutrients. Here are some benefits:
Strawberries: Rich in vitamin C, manganese, and antioxidants. They help improve heart health, reduce inflammation, and are beneficial for skin health.
Peaches: A good source of vitamins A and C, potassium, and fiber. They support digestive health, boost the immune system, and may help in maintaining healthy skin.
Combined, these fruits make a jam that is a treat for your health as well as your taste buds.
What to Serve With Strawberry Peach Jam
Strawberry Peach Jam is versatile and can complement a variety of dishes. Here are some delightful pairings:
Breakfast: Spread it on toast, bagels, or croissants. Use it as a filling for crepes or pancakes topped with whipped cream.
Desserts: Swirl it into ice cream or yogurt for a fruity twist. It makes a great filling for cakes or pastries.
Cheese Platters: Serve it alongside cheeses like Brie, goat cheese, or cream cheese. The sweet jam balances the savory flavors wonderfully.
Meats: Use it as a glaze for grilled chicken or pork. The sweetness enhances the savory profile of the meat.
How to store Strawberry Peach Jam
To keep your Strawberry Peach Jam fresh, store it in a cool, dark place. If you’ve sealed it properly in sterilized jars, it can last for up to a year when stored in a pantry. Once opened, keep the jar in the refrigerator and aim to consume it within a few weeks for the best flavor.
Tips and mistakes to avoid
Use fresh fruit: Always choose ripe and fresh strawberries and peaches for the best flavor and texture in your jam.
Don’t skip pectin: Fruit pectin is essential for helping the jam to set correctly. Make sure to follow the instructions on the pectin package for the best results.
Sterilize jars: Ensure your jars are sterilized to prevent bacteria from growing in your jam. You can do this by boiling them in water for 10 minutes.
Adjust sweetness if necessary: If you prefer a less sweet jam, feel free to reduce the sugar. Just be aware it may affect the setting.
Variation
You can mix things up with Strawberry Peach Jam by adding different flavors and spices. Here are some ideas:
Herbal Twist: Add some fresh basil or mint for a refreshing herbal flavor.
Spice it Up: Mix in a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for a warm spice note.
Citrus Zing: Incorporate some orange or lime zest for a citrusy kick.
Experimenting with these variations allows you to customize your jam to your taste!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen fruit instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries and peaches, but make sure they are thawed and drained before use.
2. How do I know if my jam has set properly?
You can perform the “spoon test.” If the jam holds its shape on the spoon and does not run off easily, it’s set.
3. Can I reduce the sugar in this recipe?
Yes, you can reduce sugar, but it may affect the jam’s sweetness and texture. Use a sugar substitute specifically designed for canning if needed.
4. How long does homemade jam last?
When stored in a cool, dark place, sealed jars can last up to a year. Once opened, keep it in the fridge and consume within a few weeks.
Making Strawberry Peach Jam is not just a fun cooking project; it’s a way to create something delicious and wholesome. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll have a sweet delight to enjoy or share with loved ones. Happy jamming!
A delicious homemade jam that combines sweet strawberries and juicy peaches for a burst of summer flavor all year round.
Ingredients
Scale
2 cups fresh strawberries, hulled and chopped
2 cups fresh peaches, peeled and chopped
1 cup granulated sugar
1/4 cup lemon juice
1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin
Instructions
Prepare the fruit: Start by washing the strawberries and peaches. Remove the stems from the strawberries and chop them into small pieces. For the peaches, peel, pit, and chop them into similar-sized pieces.
Mix the ingredients: In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries, chopped peaches, and sugar. Stir well to ensure that the fruit is coated with the sugar. Let this mixture sit for about 10 minutes to draw out the juices.
Add lemon juice: After the fruit has rested, add the lemon juice and stir to combine.
Cook the mixture: Place the pot on the stove over medium heat. Bring the fruit mixture to a boil, stirring frequently. Once it reaches a rolling boil, let it cook for about 10-15 minutes.
Add pectin: Stir in the fruit pectin and bring the mixture back to a full boil. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the jam reaches the desired thickness.
Check for doneness: To test if the jam is ready, place a small spoonful on a cold plate. Let it sit for a minute, then run your finger through the jam. If it holds its shape and doesn’t run back together, it’s done.
Jar the jam: Remove the pot from heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Pour the jam into sterilized canning jars, leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top.
Seal and store: Place the lids on the jars and screw the bands on until they are fingertip-tight. Process in a water bath canner for about 10 minutes for safe preservation.
Notes
Use fresh, ripe fruits for the best flavor. Ensure jars are sterilized to avoid bacteria.