Zesty Strawberry Balsamic Jam Recipe: Sweet-Tangy Bliss in a Jar

Sweet summer strawberries dance with tangy balsamic vinegar in this unexpected strawberry balsamic jam recipe that will revolutionize your breakfast spread.

The rich, complex flavors meld together in a stunning preserve that elevates simple toast to a gourmet experience.

Ripe, juicy strawberries burst with natural sweetness, perfectly complemented by the deep, aged notes of balsamic.

Each spoonful carries a delightful balance between fruity brightness and sophisticated undertones.

The vibrant crimson color hints at the delectable complexity waiting inside the jar.

Homemade preserves never tasted so extraordinary, offering a sophisticated twist on classic strawberry jam.

You’ll fall in love with this elegant, small-batch spread that transforms ordinary moments into culinary memories.

Why Strawberry Balsamic Jam Is a Standout

• Craft a Creamy Delight: This white chocolate cheesecake offers a luxurious, velvety texture that melts in your mouth, creating a decadent dessert experience.
• Simplify Baking Magic: Designed for home bakers of all skill levels, the recipe breaks down complex steps into easy-to-follow instructions, making gourmet dessert creation accessible.
• Celebrate Special Moments: Perfect for gatherings, birthdays, or romantic dinners, this cheesecake transforms ordinary occasions into memorable culinary celebrations with its elegant white chocolate twist.
• Versatile Crowd-Pleaser: The recipe's rich, smooth flavor appeals to both kids and adults, making it an ideal dessert for family events or potluck parties that will impress everyone at the table.

What’s Needed for Strawberry Balsamic Jam

• Strawberries: Fresh, ripe strawberries that provide the primary flavor and texture of the jam.
• Sugar: Adds sweetness and helps in the jam-setting process.
• Balsamic Vinegar: Introduces a tangy depth and sophisticated flavor profile to the strawberry jam.

• Medium Saucepan: The primary cooking vessel for preparing the jam.
• Clean Jar or Airtight Container: Helps store the jam safely and maintains its freshness.

• Stirring Utensil: Helps mix and prevent sticking during the cooking process.

Cooking Steps for Strawberry Balsamic Jam

Step 1: Prep Strawberry Fusion

• Fresh, ripe strawberries (diced)
• Granulated sugar
• Rich balsamic vinegar

Stir these ingredients together, creating a vibrant mixture that promises an incredible taste adventure.

Step 2: Bring the Excitement to a Boil

Crank up the heat to medium and watch the magic happen.

Let the ingredients dance and bubble, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking or burning. The kitchen will fill with an incredible aroma that’ll make your mouth water.

Step 3: Simmer and Transform

Lower the heat and let the mixture gently simmer. This is where the real transformation begins.

Keep an eye on the pan and stir occasionally, allowing the strawberries to break down and the flavors to meld together. Continue cooking for about 25-30 minutes until the mixture becomes thick and glossy.

Step 4: Cool and Preserve

Remove the pan from heat and let the jam cool completely. The mixture will continue to thicken as it reaches room temperature.

Once cooled, carefully transfer your homemade strawberry balsamic jam into a clean glass jar or airtight container. Refrigerate and enjoy within 2 weeks – if it lasts that long!

Notes and Details for Balsamic Jam Perfection

• Choose deep red, fragrant strawberries at peak ripeness for the most intense flavor and natural sweetness.
• Stir frequently and watch closely to prevent burning, adjusting heat as needed to achieve perfect jam thickness.
• Select a good-quality aged balsamic vinegar to enhance the strawberry's natural sweetness with rich, complex undertones.
• Thoroughly clean glass jars with hot water or sanitize in boiling water to ensure longer preservation and prevent bacterial growth.
• Add a pinch of black pepper or fresh basil for an unexpected flavor twist that complements the strawberry-balsamic combination.

Ways to Change Up Strawberry Balsamic Jam

• Berry Mix Jam: Replace strawberries with a blend of raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries for a multi-berry balsamic jam.
• Honey Swap Jam: Substitute sugar with raw honey for a natural sweetener and deeper flavor profile.
• Low-Sugar Version: Use stevia or monk fruit sweetener to reduce overall sugar content while maintaining jam's richness.
• Spiced Balsamic Variation: Add ground cinnamon or cardamom during cooking for a warm, aromatic jam experience.

What Goes Well With Strawberry Balsamic Jam

• Pair with Creamy Cheese Delights: Spread this tangy strawberry balsamic jam on soft goat cheese, brie, or cream cheese for a luxurious appetizer that balances sweet and acidic flavors.
• Elevate Breakfast Classics: Drizzle over buttermilk pancakes, waffles, or toast to transform ordinary morning meals into gourmet experiences with its rich, complex taste.
• Match with Robust Wines: Complement the jam's depth by serving alongside a glass of pinot noir or a crisp rosé, allowing the wine's fruity notes to enhance the strawberry's sweetness and balsamic's tanginess.
• Create Charcuterie Magic: Use as a stunning condiment on a charcuterie board, pairing beautifully with prosciutto, salami, and aged hard cheeses to create a sophisticated flavor profile.

How to Store Strawberry Balsamic Jam Properly

• Seal the jam in a sterilized glass jar with a tight-lid and store in the refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Pour cooled jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving 1/2 inch headspace. Freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before using.
• Do not leave jam out for more than 2 hours. Always use a clean spoon when scooping to prevent bacterial contamination.
• Gently warm small portions in the microwave for 10-15 seconds or in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

FAQs

• What type of sugar works best for this jam?

White granulated sugar is ideal, providing the right sweetness and helping the jam set properly without changing the strawberry flavor.

• Can I use frozen strawberries instead of fresh?

Yes, frozen strawberries work well. Thaw them completely and drain excess liquid before cooking to ensure the right jam consistency.

• How do I know when the jam has reached the right thickness?

The jam should coat the back of a spoon and leave a clear path when you run a finger through it. It will continue to thicken as it cools.

• Why add balsamic vinegar to strawberry jam?

Balsamic vinegar adds depth and complexity, enhancing the strawberry’s natural sweetness with a subtle tangy undertone that makes the jam more interesting.

Strawberry Balsamic Jam Recipe

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4.7 from 27 reviews

• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Sweet summer strawberries dance with tangy balsamic in this elegant Strawberry Balsamic Jam, creating a sophisticated spread that elevates morning toast and afternoon scones. Homemade preserves never tasted so luxurious – you will savor each complex, rich spoonful of this gourmet condiment.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Fruits:

• 1 pound (454 grams) strawberries, hulled and diced

Sweeteners:

• 3 tablespoons (45 milliliters) sugar

Flavor Enhancers:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) balsamic vinegar

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Instructions

1. Dice fresh strawberries into small, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and consistent texture throughout the jam.
2. Place strawberries, sugar, and balsamic vinegar in a medium saucepan, creating a vibrant, glossy mixture with deep red tones.
3. Position the saucepan over medium heat, stirring ingredients gently to help sugar dissolve and prevent sticking.
4. Increase heat until mixture reaches a rolling boil, watching carefully to prevent overflow or scorching.
5. Immediately reduce heat to low, allowing jam to simmer and develop rich, concentrated flavors for 25-30 minutes.
6. Stir occasionally, monitoring consistency and preventing bottom from burning; mixture will gradually thicken and become more glossy.
7. Test jam’s readiness by checking its ability to coat the back of a spoon or performing a cold plate test for proper gel-like texture.
8. Remove from heat and let cool at room temperature, understanding that jam will continue to set and thicken as it approaches ambient temperature.
9. Once completely cooled, transfer jam to sterilized glass jar or airtight container, ensuring a tight seal.
10. Refrigerate jam, which will maintain optimal flavor and texture for approximately two weeks.

Notes

• Select ripe, sweet strawberries for the most intense flavor profile and best jam consistency.
• Use a heavy-bottomed saucepan to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution during cooking.
• Adjust balsamic vinegar quantity based on personal taste preference for a more tangy or subtle flavor.
• Sterilize glass jars before storing to extend the jam’s shelf life and prevent bacterial growth.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Breakfast, Snacks, Desserts
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 56 kcal
• Sugar: 11 g
• Sodium: 1 mg
• Fat: 0 g
• Saturated Fat: 0 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 0 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 14 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 1 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg