My first Canning Session

Okay, I will admit right off the back that all of these strawberries did not come from my garden.  Just to anxious to try canning to wait for them.  Besides, PUBLIX was having such a great sale!

My first attempt at canning is going to be that of Strawberry Jam (not to be confused with Jelly).  I figured for my first attempt I'd try something as simple as possible and trust me, it doesn't get any simpler than this.

Favorite Strawberry Jam


Generations have made Strawberry jam to preserve this favorite summer fruit. Traditionally, low-pectin strawberries are cooked for long periods to achieve a gel. This method uses standing periods alternating with much shorter cooking times. It makes a jam that retains its lovely red color and fresh flavor.


Here is what you need:

4 Cups of Strawberries halved or quartered  (depending on their size)

2 Cups of Sugar

1/4 cup of Lemon Juice

1. Mix berries and sugar and let stand for 8 hours, stirring occasionally

Quartered Strawberries

Sugar and Strawberries

2. Place berry mixture in a medium stainless steel or enamel saucepan and bring to a boil over medium heat.  Add lemon juice, return to a boil and boil rapidly for 5 minutes.  Remove from the heat, cover and let stand for 24 hours.

Boiling Strawberries, sugar and lemon juice

After 24 hours

3.  Bring berries to a full boil over high heat and boil rapidly for 5 minutes, stirring constantly.  Remove from heat.

4. Ladle into hot jars and process for 10 minutes (per preserving steps).

Hot Jars

Jam placed in jar

Jars of Jam being processed

Makes 2 1/2 cups

Mama Duke's Strawberry Jam

Nice YUMMY chunks of strawberries
No skimping in this JAM!

There is a little bit more information as far as equipment necessary and if this is something you'd like to know..just shoot me an email and I'll be happy to give you the list.

Clean jars, lids, screw bands, jar lifter, and funnel

Boiling Water Canner/large stock pan

Now, what are you waiting for?  You don't even have to have a garden to can...purchase vegetables in season when they are at excellent prices and preserve their delicious taste for winter!