Instructions:
- Prepare the Strawberries:
- Wash the strawberries thoroughly.
- Remove the stems and any bruised or damaged parts.
- If desired, you can slice the strawberries or leave them whole.
- Prepare the Syrup:
- In a large saucepan, combine the water and granulated sugar.
- Heat the mixture over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved to make a light syrup. Bring the syrup to a gentle boil, then remove from heat.
- Sterilize Jars and Lids:
- Sterilize your canning jars and lids by boiling them in water for at least 10 minutes. Keep the jars and lids hot until ready to use.
- Fill the Jars:
- Pack the prepared strawberries into the hot, sterilized jars, leaving about 1/2 inch of headspace at the top.
- If using, add 1 teaspoon of lemon juice per pint jar to help preserve the color of the strawberries.
- Pour the hot syrup over the strawberries, again leaving 1/2 inch of headspace. Use a non-metallic utensil to remove air bubbles by gently stirring around the inside of the jar. Adjust the headspace if necessary.
- Seal the Jars:
- Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any syrup or fruit residue.
- Place the sterilized lids on the jars and screw on the bands until fingertip-tight.
- Process the Jars:
- Place the filled jars into a boiling water canner, ensuring they are covered by at least 1-2 inches of water.
- Bring the water to a full boil and process the jars for 10 minutes (adjust time based on altitude if necessary).
- Cool and Store:
- Carefully remove the jars from the canner using a jar lifter and place them on a towel or cooling rack. Allow the jars to cool undisturbed for 12-24 hours.
- Check the seals by pressing down on the center of each lid. If the lid does not pop back, the jar is sealed properly.
- Label the jars with the date and store them in a cool, dark place. Properly canned strawberries should last up to one year.
Tips for Success
- Strawberry Selection: Choose ripe, unblemished strawberries for the best flavor and quality.
- Syrup Adjustments: Adjust the sweetness of the syrup to your preference by varying the sugar amount.
- Jar Handling: Handle the jars carefully to avoid breakage and ensure a proper seal.
Conclusion
Canning whole strawberries is an excellent way to preserve the freshness and sweetness of this beloved fruit. Whether you enjoy them on desserts, in smoothies, or straight from the jar, canned strawberries offer a taste of summer any time of the year. This simple and rewarding process results in beautifully preserved strawberries that can enhance a wide variety of culinary creations. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and the satisfaction of homemade canned strawberries.
