Louisiana Classic Fresh Strawberry Preserve

Indulge in the timeless flavors of Louisiana with our Homemade Fresh Strawberry Preserves! Handcrafted with love and care, this classic recipe showcases the natural sweetness of halved, fresh strawberries combined with a hint of vanilla and zesty lemon. Unlike store-bought alternatives, our preserves are free from artificial additives and preservatives, ensuring a pure and wholesome treat. Experience the joy of homemade goodness, as the luscious blend of ingredients delivers an authentic taste that transports you to the heart of Louisiana's culinary heritage. Relish the simple pleasure of knowing every spoonful is a labor of love and dedication. 🍓🍯🌞

Set the Scene: While preparing the Louisiana Classic Fresh Strawberry Preserve, why not incorporate a self-care strategy like practicing mindfulness? As you engage in the process of chopping, stirring, and simmering, bring your full attention to each step. Notice the vibrant colors and fragrant aromas, and let yourself be fully present in the moment. Take deep breaths and allow any stress or worries to melt away. Embrace the therapeutic aspect of cooking by savoring the sensory experience and cultivating a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to nourish yourself and others. By combining the joy of cooking with mindful awareness, you can create a delicious preserve while also nurturing your own well-being.

Vibe: A wonderful song to play while making the Louisiana Classic Fresh Strawberry Preserve could be "Strawberry Fields Forever" by The Beatles. The dreamy and melodic tones of this timeless classic perfectly complement the joyful and nostalgic atmosphere of cooking. The lyrics and soothing instrumentals can create a whimsical ambiance, adding an extra touch of magic to your kitchen therapy session. So, let the music guide your culinary journey as you immerse yourself in the process of creating delicious strawberry preserves.

Instructions:

• 2 cups fresh strawberries, washed, hulled, and halved

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract

• Pinch of salt

Directions

1. In a large saucepan, combine the halved fresh strawberries and granulated sugar. Let the strawberries sit in the sugar for about 30 minutes, allowing them to release their juices.

2. Place the saucepan over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally. Bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium and continue to cook the strawberries for about 15-20 minutes, or until they become soft and the syrup thickens slightly.

4. Add the fresh lemon juice, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt to the saucepan. Stir well to incorporate the flavors.

5. Continue to simmer the mixture for another 5-10 minutes, or until it reaches your desired consistency. You can test the consistency by placing a small amount of preserves on a chilled plate and checking if it gels slightly when cooled.

6. Once the strawberry preserves are ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.

7. Transfer the warm preserves to sterilized glass jars. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool completely at room temperature.