Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Rinse the strawberries under cold water to clean them thoroughly.
- Hull and slice the strawberries into desired sizes for easier packing.
- Prepare the Jars:
- Sterilize canning jars and lids by placing them in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes, or by running them through a dishwasher cycle on high heat.
- Keep the jars warm until ready to use to prevent breakage when adding hot syrup.
- Make the Syrup:
- In a saucepan, combine the granulated sugar with 1/4 cup of water.
- Heat over medium heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. Be careful not to let the syrup boil.
- Pack the Jars:
- Place the prepared strawberries into the sterilized jars, packing them tightly but without crushing the fruit. Leave about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
- Add Lemon Juice:
- To ensure proper acidity and preservation, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice to each jar.
- Add Syrup:
- Pour the warm syrup over the strawberries, maintaining the 1/2 inch of headspace. Use a clean, damp cloth to wipe the rims of the jars to remove any residue.
- Seal the Jars:
- Place the sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the metal bands until they are fingertip-tight.
- Process in a Water Bath:
- Process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10-15 minutes. Ensure that the water covers the jars by at least an inch. If you are at a higher altitude, adjust the processing time accordingly.
- Cool and Store:
- After processing, carefully remove the jars from the water bath and place them on a clean towel or cooling rack. Allow them to cool completely, undisturbed.
- Once cooled, check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. The lids should be concave and not pop when pressed.
- Label and Store:
- Label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. Properly canned strawberries can be stored for up to a year.
Enjoy:
Canned strawberries are a wonderful addition to your winter pantry, offering a sweet reminder of warmer days. They’re perfect for making jams, adding to desserts, or enhancing your favorite recipes. Whether enjoyed in pies, smoothies, or as a topping for yogurt, these preserved strawberries will bring the taste of summer to your kitchen all year long.