July is one of the sweetest times to enjoy your garden, and strawberries are a harbinger of the good summertimes ahead. To make this lucky jam, you will need the following ingredients:
- 5 cups of strawberries
- 1 teaspoon unsalted butter
- 1¾ ounces powdered fruit pectin
- 7 cups granulated sugar
- ½ cup fresh basil, chopped
- 9 clean and sterilized 1-pint canning jars
Macerate the strawberries in a big bowl. In a large pot, melt the butter, then pour in the crushed strawberries. Fold in the powdered pectin. Heat the mixture to a full boil over high heat, stirring constantly. Add in the sugar and bring to a full rolling boil again. Boil and stir for one more minute. Now, add in the chopped basil.
Remove the pot from heat and skim off any foam. Ladle the hot mixture into nine half-pint jars, leaving ¼-inch at the top. Look for and remove any air bubbles. If you need to fill in the jars, add in more hot jam mixture. Carefully wipe the jar rims, then seal the lids on the jars. Place jars into canner with simmering water, ensuring that they are completely covered with water. Bring to a boil; process for ten minutes. Remove jars and cool. Strawberries are widely regarded as an aphrodisiac, and basil brings money to your house. Making this “Love and Money Jam” will be a great gift to everyone in your household and anyone who is served this jolliest of jams.
