STRAWBERRY JAM with powdered pectin

Homemade Strawberry Jam is the taste of summer captured in a jar — bright, sweet, and full of the flavor of freshly crushed berries. This recipe honors the simple joy of turning ripe strawberries into something lasting and lovely. As the fruit bubbles and thickens, the kitchen fills with that unmistakable fragrance of sunshine and sweetness. Each spoonful brings back memories of family breakfasts, garden afternoons, and the satisfaction of making something by hand. With just a few ingredients and a little patience, you’ll create a jam that’s perfect for spreading on warm toast, layering in desserts, or gifting to someone you love.

Ingredients:

• 5 1/2 cups crushed strawberries (about 3-quart boxes strawberries)
• 1 package powdered pectin
• 8 cups sugar

Directions:
To prepare fruit:

1. Sort and wash fully ripe strawberries.
2. Remove stems and caps.
3. Crush berries

To make jam:

1. Measure crushed strawberries into a kettle.
2. Add pectin and stir well.
3. Place on high heat and, stirring constantly, bring quickly to a full boil with bubbles over the entire surface.
4. Add sugar, continue stirring, and heat again to a full bubbling boil.
5. Boil hard for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
6. Remove from heat; skim.
7. Pour immediately into hot, sterile canning jars to 1/4 inch from top.
8. Seal and process 5 minutes in boiling water bath. Makes 9 or 10 half-pint jars.