Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

There’s something about the combination of strawberries and rhubarb that just sings of spring! Whenever I think of making Strawberry Rhubarb Jam, I can almost taste the vibrant tanginess paired with the sweetness of fresh strawberries. It reminds me of sun-soaked afternoons spent in my grandmother’s garden, picking ripe strawberries and plucking tangy rhubarb stalks. The aroma that fills the kitchen as this jam cooks down is intoxicating, and it’s a reminder of how simple ingredients can create a delightful treat. Every jar feels like a little piece of summer that I can enjoy all year round.

In my experience, making Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is not just a cooking task; it’s a heartwarming ritual. I love watching the vibrant colors meld together, and as it thickens, the anticipation builds. It’s the perfect spread for breakfast on toast, a filling for pastries, or simply a sweet addition to any cheese board. The joy of sharing homemade jam with friends and family makes each batch even sweeter!

Ingredient List for Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

When it comes to making Strawberry Rhubarb Jam, the ingredients play a vital role in creating that perfect balance of flavors. The key players are undoubtedly the rhubarb and strawberries, which together create a delightful harmony. Along with granulated sugar to enhance sweetness, fresh lemon juice adds a zesty brightness, while a pinch of salt helps to bring out the flavors. If you wish, a hint of vanilla extract can further elevate the taste, making it even more unforgettable.

• 9 cups rhubarb, sliced into 1/2 inch segments: This tart vegetable is the star of the show. Its tangy flavor balances beautifully with the sweetness of the strawberries.
• 6 cups strawberries, hulled and halved: These juicy fruits add sweetness and a lovely bright color to the jam.
• 4 ½ cups granulated sugar: The sugar not only sweetens the jam but also helps in the preservation process.
• ¼ cup fresh lemon juice: The acidity from the lemon juice enhances the flavors and helps in thickening the jam.
• 1 teaspoon salt: A little pinch of salt can enhance the overall flavors, making the jam more complex.
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional): Adding a touch of vanilla can provide a warm undertone to the jam.

Preparation Steps for Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

Creating Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is a straightforward process that yields delicious results. You’ll find that making jam from scratch is not only rewarding but also quite fun! Start by preparing your ingredients, and let’s dive into the steps that will transform fresh fruits into a delightful spread.

1. Begin by cutting the rhubarb into small pieces. Aim for uniformity so that they cook evenly. This is where the magic begins as you get those vibrant green and pink hues ready to shine in your jam!
2. Next, trim the strawberries, removing the green tops and slicing them in half. This helps them to break down more easily when they cook. The sweet scent of strawberries fills the air, setting the stage for a delicious treat!
3. Now, set a large 7 to 8 quart saucepot over medium heat. It’s essential to use a pot that can accommodate the ingredients as they bubble and expand.
4. Into the pot, add the halved strawberries, chopped rhubarb, granulated sugar, lemon juice, and salt. Stir well to combine, and you should see the sugar starting to dissolve, creating a lovely syrupy mixture as the juices of the fruits release.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally. Once it reaches a rolling boil, lower the heat to a very low boil. It’s crucial to keep an eye on it and stir every 5 to 10 minutes to prevent the jam from burning on the bottom. You’ll notice the colors deepening and the aroma becoming irresistible!
6. After about an hour of cooking, take a moment to check the consistency. Using a cooking thermometer, measure the temperature of the jam. It should reach between 203 to 205°F. If it’s not there yet, allow it to cook for another 30 minutes, stirring regularly.
7. Once the jam has thickened and reached the desired temperature, turn off the heat. Carefully stir in the optional vanilla extract, which adds a beautiful depth of flavor.
8. Now comes the exciting part! Use a ladle to move the hot jam into clean pint jars. Be careful; it’ll be quite hot! If you’re planning to freeze the jam, remember to leave about 1 inch at the top of each jar unfilled to allow for expansion.
9. If you’re canning the jam instead of freezing, follow proper canning protocol at this point to ensure it’s sealed safely for storage. The satisfaction of knowing you’ve made something beautiful and preserved it for later is indescribable!

How to Switch It Up

If you’re looking to add a twist to your Strawberry Rhubarb Jam, here are some creative tips to try!

• Storage: Store your jam in airtight containers in a cool, dark place. Once opened, keep it in the fridge and use it within a few weeks.
• Freezing: This jam freezes beautifully! Make sure to leave ample space in the jar for expansion when freezing.
• Pairing: Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is perfect on toast, pancakes, or even as a filling for pies and pastries.
• Flavor Variations: Consider adding a hint of spice! A dash of cinnamon or a few crushed red pepper flakes can give your jam a unique twist.
• Seasonal Spice: You can also incorporate seasonal herbs like fresh rosemary or mint to enhance the flavor further.

Accompaniments for Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

When it comes to serving Strawberry Rhubarb Jam, the possibilities are endless. Here are some delightful accompaniments:

• Toast: Spread it generously on warm, buttery toast for a perfect breakfast or snack.
• Pancakes: Drizzle it over pancakes or waffles for a sweet morning treat that brings a burst of flavor.
• Cheese Board: Pair it with sharp cheeses like cheddar or brie for an exquisite cheese board that your guests will adore.
• Yogurt Parfaits: Add it to Greek yogurt for a delicious parfait, topped with granola and fresh fruits.
• Seasonal Events: This jam makes a fantastic gift during the holidays, showcasing homemade goodness in a jar.
• Baking: Use it as a filling for croissants, pastries, or even as an addition to muffins for something sweet and tangy.

FAQ

Conclusion

In conclusion, Strawberry Rhubarb Jam is a delightful treat that brings together the best of both worlds with its sweet and tart flavors. The joy of making this jam lies not just in its taste, but in the memories it creates and the love infused in each jar. I encourage you to try your hand at making this delicious spread and share it with your loved ones. You won’t be disappointed!

Strawberry Rhubarb Jam

Indulge in the delightful fusion of sweet strawberries and tart rhubarb with this homemade Strawberry Rhubarb Jam. It's the perfect spread for toast, an elegant addition to cheese boards, or just a sweet treat on its own. Capture the essence of spring in every jar and savor its flavors all year round!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 20 minutes mins

Cook Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 20 minutes mins

Course Desserts

Cuisine American

Servings 16 servings

Calories 100 kcal

Equipment

• Chef's Knife
• Frying Pan
• Wooden Spoon
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 9 cups rhubarb sliced into 1/2 inch segments
• 6 cups strawberries hulled and halved
• 4.5 cups granulated sugar
• 0.25 cups fresh lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract optional

Instructions

 

• Cut the rhubarb into small pieces. Trim the strawberries and cut them into halves.
• Set a large 7 to 8 quart saucepot over medium heat. Add the strawberries, rhubarb, sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
• Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a very low boil and cook for one hour. Make sure to stir the jam every 5 to 10 minutes so that it doesn’t burn on the bottom.
• Once the jam has cooked for at least an hour, place a cooking thermometer in the pot. Wait for the jam to reach 203 to 205°F. The jam may need up to another 30 minutes to reach this temperature, or it may already be there!
• Turn off the heat and stir in the vanilla extract. Use a ladle to carefully move the hot jam to four clean pint jars.
• If planning to freeze, make sure to leave 1 inch at the top of the jar unfilled, for expansion. If planning to can, follow proper canning protocol at this point.

Notes

• Tip 1: Consider mixing things up by adding a jalapeno, habanero, crushed red pepper, lemon zest, or fresh rosemary.
• Tip 2: Once the Strawberry Rhubarb Jam has cooled completely for the full 24 hours, it will keep well in the freezer for up to one year.
• Tip 3: After you have moved the jar to the fridge and opened, it should be used within 3 to 4 weeks.

Keyword Fruit Preserves, Homemade Jam, Spring Recipes, strawberry rhubarb jam

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Meet Sienna Blake

I’m Sienna, the detail-obsessed cook of the group! I specialize in baking and perfecting technical recipes so you never have to guess in the kitchen. I have tested this specific recipe multiple times adjusting the measurements and timing to guarantee it is absolutely foolproof and ready for your table. Trust the process, and I promise you’ll get amazing results!