Homemade Strawberry Preserves
Ingredients:
- 3-4 packed cups fresh strawberries hulled & cut in half
- 1 cup sugar
- ½ lemon juiced or ¼ cup lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons cornstarch
- 2 tablespoons cold water
Directions:
Place strawberries in a medium pot, add sugar, and lemon juice.
Mash the berries (if they are too hard, wait to mash them).
Bring mixture to a boil over high heat and every so often mash the berries with the masher.
Once it’s boiling and you’ve mashed the berries, turn the down to medium high and add the corn starch slurry (corn starch plus water).
It will begin to thicken quickly, so do not take your eye off it.
Let cook for 5-6 min continuing to stir every minute or so.
Pour into a large bowl and let cool for 30-45 min at room temperature.
Once cooled, transfer preserves to mason jars or other airtight containers.
What Are Substitutes for Pectin?
Citrus peels. Citrus peels—especially the white part, or pith—are naturally packed with pectin.
Cornstarch. Cornstarch is a natural thickener that works as a seamless substitute for pectin.
Gelatin. Gelatin is a viable option for non-vegans or non-vegetarians.
