How to Make Strawberry Banana Jam: A Step-by-Step Recipe Guide

Looking to add a burst of fruity goodness to your breakfast spread? Look no further than this delightful recipe for strawberry banana jam. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll be enjoying the perfect balance of sweet strawberries and creamy bananas in no time. Whether you’re spreading it on toast, dolloping it on pancakes, or using it as a filling for pastries, this homemade jam is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds with the delectable flavors of strawberry banana jam. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of ripe strawberries with the creamy texture of bananas, resulting in a jam that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned jam-maker or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is perfect for everyone. So grab your apron and let’s get started on creating this delicious spread that will elevate your breakfast experience.

If you’re tired of the same old jams and spreads, it’s time to try something new and exciting. Enter strawberry banana jam, a delightful combination of two beloved fruits that will take your taste buds on a journey. This recipe is not only easy to make, but it also requires minimal ingredients. So why settle for store-bought jams when you can whip up a batch of this homemade goodness? Get ready to impress your family and friends with this irresistible and unique flavor combination.

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Ingredients

To make this delectable strawberry banana jam, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

• Fresh strawberries: Make sure to choose ripe, juicy strawberries for the best flavor. Look for bright red berries that are firm to the touch. Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C and antioxidants.
• Ripe bananas: Opt for bananas that are yellow with a few brown spots. These bananas will add a natural sweetness and creamy texture to the jam. Bananas are packed with potassium, vitamin B6, and dietary fiber.
• Granulated sugar: This will help sweeten the jam and preserve it. You can adjust the amount of sugar based on your preference.
• Lemon juice: Adding a splash of lemon juice will brighten the flavors of the jam and help prevent the fruit from oxidizing.
• Pectin: Pectin is a natural thickening agent that will give your jam the perfect consistency. It’s readily available at most grocery stores.
• Water: You’ll need a small amount of water to help dissolve the sugar and pectin.

Once you have all these ingredients ready, you’re all set to begin creating your homemade strawberry banana jam. It’s a simple recipe that will bring a burst of fruity goodness to your breakfast table or afternoon tea.

Remember, using fresh, high-quality ingredients is the key to making the best strawberry banana jam. So, take a trip to your local farmer’s market or grocery store and gather everything you need. Get ready to enjoy the delightful combination of strawberries and bananas in a spreadable form that will have you coming back for more.

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries and Bananas

Are you ready to embark on a delightful culinary adventure with strawberries and bananas? Let’s get started by preparing these delicious fruits for our homemade strawberry banana jam!

1. Gather your Ingredients:
Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. For this recipe, you’ll need:

• Fresh strawberries: Look for ripe, juicy strawberries, as they will add a burst of natural sweetness to your jam.
• Ripe bananas: Choose bananas that are slightly soft and have a vibrant yellow color. They will lend a creamy texture to the jam.
• Granulated sugar: This will enhance the sweetness and act as a natural preservative for your jam.
• Lemon juice: Adding a touch of lemon juice will brighten the flavors and help balance the sweetness.
• Pectin: Pectin is a natural thickening agent that will give your jam the perfect consistency.
• Water: You’ll need water to dissolve the pectin and create the base for your jam.

2. Wash and Hull the Strawberries:
Start by washing the strawberries under cool running water. Gently pat them dry with a paper towel. Next, remove the green stems or “hulls” from the strawberries using a sharp knife or a strawberry huller. This will ensure that your jam has a smooth texture without any unwanted bits.

3. Mash the Strawberries:
Place the hulled strawberries in a large bowl and use a potato masher or a fork to mash them. Aim for a chunky texture, as this will add a delightful texture to your jam.

4. Peel and Mash the Bananas:
Peel the ripe bananas and place them in a separate bowl. Use a fork or a potato masher to mash them until they are smooth and creamy. The bananas will add a luscious consistency to your jam, making it irresistible.

Now that you’ve prepared the strawberries and bananas, you’re one step closer to creating your very own strawberry banana jam. Stay tuned for the next step, where we’ll show you how to combine these ingredients and transform them into a mouthwatering jam that you won’t be able to resist.

Step 2: Mash the Strawberries and Bananas Together

Now that you have gathered all the necessary ingredients, it’s time to move on to the next step – mashing the strawberries and bananas together. This is where the magic happens, as the flavors of these two delicious fruits combine to create a mouthwatering jam.

To begin, take your washed and hulled strawberries and place them in a bowl. Using a fork or a potato masher, gently mash the strawberries until they reach a chunky texture. You want to leave some small strawberry pieces for added texture in your jam.

Next, it’s time to tackle the bananas. Start by peeling them and placing them in a separate bowl. Using the same fork or masher, mash the bananas until they become smooth and creamy. The goal here is to achieve a silky consistency that will blend well with the strawberries.

Once both the strawberries and bananas are mashed to perfection, it’s time to bring them together. Add the mashed bananas to the bowl of mashed strawberries and give them a gentle stir. You want to ensure that the two fruits are well combined, creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

By mashing the strawberries and bananas together, you are not only infusing the jam with their natural sweetness, but also creating a delightful texture that will make your taste buds dance with joy. The creamy bananas add a velvety smoothness to the jam, while the strawberries bring a burst of fruity freshness.

Remember, the quality of your ingredients is crucial in creating a truly amazing strawberry banana jam. So be sure to use fresh, ripe strawberries and perfectly ripe bananas for the best results. Now that your fruits are mashed and ready, it’s time to move on to the next step – cooking the mixture to perfection.

Note: Don’t be tempted to over-mash the strawberries or bananas, as this can result in a jam with a mushy texture. Aim for a balance between chunkiness and creaminess for the perfect consistency.

Step 3: Cook the Fruit Mixture

Now that you have the perfect blend of mashed strawberries and bananas, it’s time to take it to the next level and cook the fruit mixture. This step is crucial as it helps to infuse the flavors and create that luscious, jam-like consistency that you crave.

To start, transfer the mashed fruit mixture to a large saucepan. Place it over medium heat and add in the remaining ingredients: granulated sugar, lemon juice, pectin, and water. Make sure to use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best results.

Stir the mixture gently and bring it to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. This will allow the fruit to break down further and release its natural juices, creating a thick and flavorful jam.

As the mixture simmers, keep an eye on it and give it an occasional stir. You want to ensure that the jam doesn’t stick to the bottom of the saucepan or burn. The gentle heat will help the sugar dissolve and the pectin to activate, resulting in a jam that sets beautifully.

During the cooking process, you’ll notice the vibrant colors of the strawberries and bananas melding together, creating a gorgeous hue that is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. The aroma of the simmering fruit will fill your kitchen, teasing your senses with its sweet and fruity fragrance.

Remember, patience is key during this step. Allow the mixture to cook slowly and gradually transform into a velvety jam. The longer you simmer it, the thicker and more concentrated the flavors will become.

Once you’ve achieved the desired consistency, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes. While it cools, you can prepare your jars for filling, ensuring they are clean and sterilized.

Step 4: Add Sugar and Lemon Juice

Now that you have cooked the fruit mixture to perfection, it’s time to take your strawberry banana jam to the next level of deliciousness. In this step, you will be adding two key ingredients: sugar and lemon juice. These ingredients will not only enhance the sweetness and tanginess of the jam but also help in preserving it for a longer shelf life.

Sugar: Adding sugar to your jam is essential for achieving the perfect balance of sweetness. It helps to bring out the natural flavors of both the strawberries and bananas. You’ll want to use granulated sugar for this recipe. As you sprinkle it into the pot, you’ll notice how it beautifully dissolves and blends with the fruit mixture, creating a sweet and luscious base for your jam.

Lemon Juice: While it may seem unusual to add lemon juice to a strawberry banana jam, it serves an important purpose. The acidity of the lemon juice helps to balance the sweetness of the jam and prevents it from becoming overly sugary. Additionally, lemon juice is a natural preservative, helping to inhibit the growth of bacteria and prolong the shelf life of your homemade jam.

To add these ingredients, simply measure out the required amount of sugar and lemon juice according to the recipe. Gently stir them into the fruit mixture until everything is well combined. You’ll be amazed at how the flavors come together, creating a jam that is both sweet and tangy, with a hint of refreshing citrus.

Remember, the amount of sugar and lemon juice you add can be adjusted to suit your personal taste preferences. If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can add a little more sugar. If you prefer a more tangy flavor, you can increase the amount of lemon juice. Feel free to experiment and make this recipe your own.

Step 5: Continue cooking and stirring

Now that you have added the sugar and lemon juice to the strawberry banana mixture, it’s time to continue cooking and stirring. This step is crucial to ensure that all the flavors meld together and the jam thickens to the perfect consistency.

Cooking the jam: Place the pot back on the stove over medium heat. Keep stirring the mixture gently to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pot. As the jam cooks, you’ll notice it thickening and the aroma filling your kitchen. This is a sign that you’re on the right track!

Stirring the jam: Stirring the jam is an important part of the cooking process. It helps distribute the heat evenly and prevents any lumps from forming. Use a wooden spoon or a silicone spatula to gently stir the mixture in a circular motion. Be sure to scrape the sides and bottom of the pot to incorporate any fruit that may have stuck.

Checking for doneness: To test if the jam is ready, you can perform a “plate test.” Simply place a small amount of the hot jam on a chilled plate and let it cool for a few seconds. Then, run your finger through it. If the jam wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s done. If it’s still too runny, continue cooking for a few more minutes and repeat the test.

Remember, the cooking time can vary depending on the freshness of your ingredients and the desired consistency of your jam. Don’t rush the process and keep an eye on the texture as it thickens.

Step 6: Test the Jam for Doneness

Now that you’ve been patiently cooking and stirring your strawberry banana jam, it’s time to test it for doneness. This is an important step to ensure that your jam is perfectly cooked and has reached the ideal consistency.

To test the jam, you’ll need a chilled plate or saucer. Simply place a small amount of the hot jam onto the plate and let it cool for a few seconds. Then, take a spoon or your finger and run it through the jam.

Pay attention to the texture and consistency. Does it have a thick and spreadable consistency? Does it hold its shape when you run your spoon or finger through it? If the jam is still too runny, it needs more cooking time. If it’s too thick and doesn’t spread easily, it may be overcooked.

It’s important to note that the cooking time for strawberry banana jam can vary depending on factors such as the freshness of the ingredients and the desired consistency. So, don’t worry if it takes a little longer than expected. The key is to get that perfect balance of flavors and texture.

If your jam needs more cooking time, simply continue cooking and stirring over low heat until it reaches the desired consistency. Remember to keep stirring to distribute the heat evenly and prevent lumps from forming.

Once you’re satisfied with the consistency, it’s time to transfer your strawberry banana jam into sterilized jars and let it cool completely before sealing. This will ensure that your jam stays fresh and delicious for a longer period of time.

Congratulations! You’ve successfully made your very own homemade strawberry banana jam. Now, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of ripe strawberries and creamy bananas on your toast, pancakes, or pastries. Get creative and explore different ways to incorporate this flavorful jam into your favorite recipes.

Step 7: Transfer the jam to jars

Now that your strawberry banana jam is ready and has reached the ideal consistency, it’s time to transfer it to jars. This step is crucial in preserving the jam and ensuring its freshness and flavor.

Here’s how you can transfer the jam to jars:

1. Prepare sterilized jars: Before transferring the jam, make sure you have clean, sterilized jars ready. Wash the jars and lids with hot, soapy water, rinse thoroughly, and then place them in a pot of boiling water for about 10 minutes. This will help kill any bacteria and ensure the jars are clean and ready for storage.
2. Use a funnel: To make the transfer process easier and mess-free, use a funnel to pour the jam into the jars. This will help you direct the jam into the jars without spilling any of it.
3. Leave some headspace: When filling the jars, make sure to leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. This will allow the jam to expand slightly during storage without causing the lids to pop off.
4. Wipe the rims: After filling each jar, wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to remove any jam residue. This will help create a tight seal when you put the lids on.
5. Seal the jars: Once the jars are filled and wiped clean, place the lids on tightly. You can also use a hot water bath canning method to further seal the jars. This involves submerging the jars in boiling water for a specific period of time to create a vacuum seal.
6. Label and store: Finally, label each jar with the date and contents, and store them in a cool, dark place. The strawberry banana jam should last for about a year if properly stored.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your homemade strawberry banana jam remains fresh and delicious for months to come. Enjoy spreading it on toast, pancakes, or even using it as a filling for pastries.

Step 8: Store the Jam

Now that you have successfully made your delicious strawberry banana jam, it’s time to store it properly to ensure its freshness and flavor for months to come. Here are a few tips on how to store your homemade jam:

1. Sterilize the Jars: Before filling the jars with the jam, it’s important to sterilize them to prevent any bacterial growth. You can do this by washing the jars and lids in hot, soapy water, and then placing them in a pot of boiling water for about 10 minutes. Remove them from the water and let them air dry.

2. Use a Funnel for Mess-Free Transfer: To avoid any spills or mess, it’s recommended to use a funnel when transferring the jam into the jars. This will help you pour the jam easily and cleanly, without wasting any precious goodness.

3. Leave Headspace: When filling the jars, make sure to leave about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. This space allows for expansion during the sealing process and helps preserve the jam’s texture and flavor.

4. Wipe the Rims: After filling the jars, wipe the rims clean with a damp cloth to ensure a tight seal. Any residue or stickiness on the rims can interfere with the sealing process and lead to spoilage.

5. Seal the Jars: Place the lids on the jars and tighten them securely. You can use a jar lifter or a towel to handle the hot jars, as they will be quite hot from the sterilization process.

6. Label and Store: Finally, don’t forget to label your jars with the date and flavor of the jam. This will help you keep track of its freshness. Store the jars in a cool, dark place, such as a pantry or a cupboard. Avoid storing them in direct sunlight or near sources of heat, as this can affect the quality of the jam.

Conclusion

By following the step-by-step guide provided in this article, you can easily create your own delicious strawberry banana jam. The key to success lies in testing the jam for doneness, ensuring that it has reached the perfect consistency. Remember that the cooking time may vary depending on factors such as ingredient freshness and desired thickness.

Once your jam is cooked to perfection, it’s important to transfer it to sterilized jars. This process can be made easier by using a funnel for mess-free transfer and leaving enough headspace. Don’t forget to wipe the rims, seal the jars tightly, and label them for easy identification.

Properly storing your homemade strawberry banana jam is crucial to maintaining its freshness and flavor. Make sure to store the jars in a cool, dark place to extend their shelf life. By following these tips, you can enjoy the delightful taste of your homemade jam for months to come.

So go ahead and try out this recipe! With a little bit of effort and attention to detail, you’ll be rewarded with a sweet and tangy jam that will elevate your breakfasts and snacks to a whole new level. Happy jam-making!