How do you make strawberry preserves with honey?

Strawberry Preserves with Honey: A Simple Recipe

Ingredients:

* 1 kg (2.2 lbs) ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced

* 750 g (26.5 oz) honey

* 1 tbsp lemon juice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the strawberries: Wash and hull your strawberries. Slice them into ¼ inch thick pieces.

2. Combine ingredients: In a large, non-reactive pot, combine the strawberries, honey, and lemon juice.

3. Cook and stir: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring frequently. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring often, until the mixture has thickened and the strawberries are soft and translucent.

4. Test for set: To check for setting, place a small amount of the mixture on a chilled plate. If the mixture wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it is ready.

5. Jar and seal: While the mixture is still hot, ladle it into sterilized jars, leaving ½ inch headspace. Wipe the jar rims clean, seal with lids, and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes to ensure proper preservation.

6. Cool and store: Allow the jars to cool completely before storing in a cool, dark place.

Tips and Variations:

* For a thicker preserve: Add 1 tbsp of pectin to the mixture before simmering.

* For a more intense strawberry flavor: Use a mixture of honey and sugar.

* Add spices: For a more complex flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom to the mixture.

* Use different fruit: You can use other fruits such as raspberries, blueberries, or peaches to make this recipe.

Enjoy your homemade strawberry preserves on toast, biscuits, yogurt, or ice cream!

Important Note: It's always best to follow a recipe that you trust and follow proper food safety procedures when making preserves. You can find more detailed information on food preservation techniques and best practices online or from reputable sources.