Marg King'S Strawberry Preserves
Sweet and tangy strawberry preserves with a hint of alum for preservation, perfect for spreading on toast or serving with desserts, appealing to fruit lovers and home canners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Boil the berries and sugar together for 10 minutes.
- Remove from fire and add powdered alum.
- Stir for 6 minutes.
- Cool until the next day.
- Put in jars cold and seal.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, ripe strawberries to enhance the flavor of your preserves. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider reducing the amount of sugar slightly, but be aware this may affect the setting. To speed up the cooling process, you can place the jars in a cold water bath. If you have leftover preserves, they can be used in recipes like Mom'S Favorite Bean Salad for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
These strawberry preserves are perfect for spreading on toast, pancakes, or waffles. Consider pairing them with cream cheese for a delightful spread on bagels. They also make a delicious topping for desserts like ice cream or yogurt. For a fun presentation, serve alongside Fruit On Skewers at your next brunch gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover strawberry preserves in sterilized jars and keep them in the refrigerator. Properly sealed, they can last for up to a year in the pantry. If you want to enjoy them warm, simply spoon out the desired amount and gently heat in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until warm. Avoid boiling to maintain the flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Marg King'S Strawberry Preserves contains roughly 446 calories, with 7g protein, 108g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (46% of the Daily Value), and potassium (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 13g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use frozen strawberries for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen strawberries, but it's best to thaw and drain any excess liquid before cooking. This will help achieve the right consistency in your preserves. Keep in mind that the flavor may be slightly different compared to fresh berries, so adjust the sugar accordingly.
How do I know when my preserves are done?
The preserves are done when they have thickened to your desired consistency. A simple test is to place a small spoonful on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. Run your finger through it; if it holds its shape, it's ready to jar. Otherwise, cook for a few more minutes.
What can I do if my preserves don't set?
If your preserves haven't set properly, you can re-cook them with a bit more sugar and lemon juice to help them thicken. Another option is to add a commercial pectin to achieve a firmer texture. Make sure to follow the instructions on the pectin package for best results.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).