How to Preserve Fresh Strawberries with Sugar

Preserving strawberries with sugar is a simple and effective way to enjoy the delicious taste of fresh strawberries year-round. Follow this step-by-step guide to ensure your strawberries maintain their flavor and aroma for up to 12 months.

Step 1: Selecting and Preparing the Strawberries
Choose Fresh Strawberries: Start with freshly picked strawberries for the best flavor and quality.

Clean with Cold Water: Place the strawberries in cold water and let them sit for 5-6 minutes.
Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the strawberries under running water to remove any dirt or debris.

Remove Stalks and Sepals: Carefully remove the stalks and sepals from each strawberry. If the strawberries are large, you can cut them into smaller pieces.
Step 2: Mixing Strawberries with Sugar
Measure Ingredients: For this recipe, you need an equal amount of strawberries and sugar. For example, use 3 kg of strawberries and 3 kg of sugar.
Combine Ingredients: Mix the strawberries with most of the sugar, reserving a portion of the sugar for later use.

Let it Sit: Allow the strawberry and sugar mixture to sit for 3 hours. During this time, stir the mixture several times to ensure the sugar is evenly distributed.

Step 3: Preparing Jars for Storage
Prepare Jars: Ensure your glass jars are clean and dry before use.
Add Remaining Sugar: After the strawberries have sat for 3 hours, add the reserved sugar to the mixture.
Fill the Jars: Spoon the strawberry mixture into the prepared jars, leaving a small space at the top.
Seal the Jars: Close the lids tightly. It is crucial that the lids are sealed properly to prevent air from entering the jars.
Step 4: Storing the Preserved Strawberries

Refrigerate: Store the sealed jars in the refrigerator, specifically in the fruit and vegetable section.
Shelf Life: Properly sealed and stored, the preserved strawberries can last up to 12 months without losing their taste and aroma.
Additional Tips
Ensure all equipment and jars are sterilized to prevent contamination.
Regularly check the jars to ensure they remain sealed and free from mold.
By following these steps, you can enjoy the fresh taste of strawberries long after the season has ended.