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If you’ve ever craved a jam that perfectly balances sweet and tangy, the Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. This vibrant jam captures the essence of fresh strawberries with the delightfully tart punch of rhubarb, resulting in a luscious spread that’s anything but ordinary. Whether slathered on toast, stirred into yogurt, or spooned over desserts, this jam bursts with summertime sunshine and homemade charm in every bite.

Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of fresh, wholesome ingredients, you’ll create a jam that’s full of character, texture, and natural color. Each component plays a vital role: rhubarb lends its bright tartness, strawberries add sweetness and juiciness, sugar enhances flavor and helps with preservation, and lemon juice brightens the whole mix while balancing the flavors wonderfully.

3 cups rhubarb (diced ½ inch): Choose firm, fresh rhubarb stalks for that perfect tangy backbone.
1 ⅔ cup granulated sugar: Adds sweetness and helps the jam set to a spreadable consistency.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice: Brightens the jam’s flavor and enhances natural pectin action.
2 ½ cups halved fresh strawberries: Use ripe, flavorful strawberries to add juicy sweetness and gorgeous color.
1 tablespoon water: Helps the rhubarb and sugar start melding together smoothly at the beginning.

How to Make Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe

Step 1: Combine and Simmer Rhubarb with Lemon and Sugar

Start by placing your diced rhubarb into a medium non-stick saucepan along with the fresh lemon juice, granulated sugar, and a tablespoon of water. Bring this mixture to a boil to dissolve the sugar and soften the rhubarb. Then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let it cook for about 25 to 30 minutes. This step helps break down the rhubarb, releasing its vibrant tart essence while allowing the sugar and lemon to blend harmoniously.

Step 2: Add Strawberries and Continue Simmering

Once the rhubarb mixture has softened and started thickening, stir in the halved fresh strawberries. Keep the pot on a low simmer for another 30 to 40 minutes. This allows the strawberries to cook down gently without losing their lovely fruity aroma. You’ll know the jam is ready when it reaches 220°F or passes the set test, where a small dollop thickens and does not run when cooled on a plate.

Step 3: Cool and Stir

After cooking, remove the pot from heat and let the jam cool for about 20 minutes. Stir it occasionally during this time to prevent a skin from forming and to help it cool evenly. This resting period helps the jam thicken to that perfect spreadable texture.

Step 4: Jar and Store

Once cooled, spoon the jam into clean jars or airtight plastic containers. This jam will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. For longer storage, freezing ensures you can enjoy your Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe months down the line without losing any of its fresh charm.

How to Serve Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe

Garnishes

For a simple yet inviting garnish, sprinkle a few fresh strawberry slices or small rhubarb ribbons on top of the jam when serving. This touch not only hints at what’s inside but adds a fresh burst of color and texture that’s simply irresistible.

Side Dishes

Pairing your jam with warm buttermilk biscuits, fluffy pancakes, or freshly toasted sourdough bread makes for an unbeatable breakfast or snack. It’s also a delightful accompaniment to creamy cheeses like brie or cream cheese, elevating any cheese board into a crowd-pleaser.

Creative Ways to Present

Why not swirl this jam into Greek yogurt or drizzle it over vanilla ice cream for an easy, indulgent dessert? You can also use it as a filling inside thumbprint cookies or layered cake for a stunning homemade treat that will turn heads and win hearts.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any jam left over, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator where it will stay fresh for up to 2 weeks. The flavor actually deepens with a day or two of rest, so don’t be shy about making extra.

Freezing

To keep your Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe for longer periods, freezing is your best friend. Simply transfer the jam into freezer-safe containers, leaving some room at the top for expansion. It will maintain its delicious flavor and can be frozen for up to 6 months.

Reheating

When you’re ready to enjoy frozen jam, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. If you prefer it warm, a quick gentle microwave or stovetop warm-up is all you need to bring back that luscious, spreadable texture without compromising its fresh flavor.

FAQs

Can I use frozen strawberries and rhubarb?

Absolutely! Frozen strawberries and rhubarb can be used in this recipe, but you might need to simmer a little longer to reach the right thickness since frozen fruits release more liquid. Just keep an eye on the texture as it cooks.

What is the best way to test if the jam is set?

The classic method is to place a small spoonful of the jam on a cold plate and let it sit for a minute. If it wrinkles when you push it with your finger, it’s ready! Alternatively, an instant-read thermometer should show 220°F to indicate the jam has reached the gel stage.

Can I reduce the sugar amount?

You can experiment with less sugar, but keep in mind that sugar not only sweetens but also helps the jam set and preserves it. Reducing sugar may result in softer jam and shorter shelf life, so adjust according to your taste and storage plans.

How long does homemade strawberry rhubarb jam last?

Refrigerated homemade jam typically lasts about two weeks. If frozen promptly, it’s best within 6 months for optimal flavor and texture. Always keep the jam covered tightly to maintain freshness.

Is it necessary to use lemon juice in the recipe?

Yes, lemon juice brightens the flavor, balances the sweetness, and helps the pectin in the fruit set the jam properly. Without it, the jam might taste flat or not set as well.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Strawberry Rhubarb Jam Recipe enough—it’s a joyful celebration of flavors that brightens everyday moments with a little homemade magic. Once you try making it yourself, you’ll find it’s a delightful treat to keep on hand for everything from breakfast to dessert. So go ahead, grab those rhubarb stalks and berries, and make a batch to share with friends and family. Trust me, it tastes like summer in a jar!