Strawberry season is upon us. Fresh strawberries are the epitome of kids and summer gardening for me. We love growing them in our garden and I must admit that they rarely make it inside. If however your kids do happen to leave some strawberries available this is a great jam recipe they will enjoy making with a little adult supervision.
Ingredients:
500g ripe strawberries, hulled and roughly chopped if large
750g sugar
2 tablespoons of lemon juice
Method:

1. Place strawberries in a large saucepan. Give a quick gentle mash to release juices.
2. Cook, uncovered, over a low heat for 15 minutes (there is enough water in the strawberries, you do not need to add extra).
3. Add sugar and lemon juice and stir until the sugar has dissolved.
4. Increase the heat to a rapid boil and cook for a further 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on the mixture as it can easily boil over.
5. Remove a teaspoon of the jam mixture, place on a saucer and chill in the freezer for a few minutes. Remove from the freeezer and run your finger through the jam. If it separates into two then it has reached the setting stage. If not, continue to boil for 2-3 minutes and then try again.
6. Remove the jam for the heat and allow to cool slightly.
7. Spoon the jam into hot, steralised jars and then seal.

This jam makes a great thank you gift or keep it for yourself to enjoy on hot toast, scones or pikelets – yum!
What is your favourite flavour or jam?