Strawberries are a delight—sweet and tangy! Here are three essential tips to enjoy them at their best.
First, Remove the Stem Before Washing
Do you usually wash strawberries with the stems on and hold them while you eat? Many do, but the area around the stem can have more pesticide residue.
For a cleaner experience, remove the stems with a knife before washing. This little extra effort ensures you enjoy strawberries with minimal pesticide worries.
Second: Wash with Baking Soda
Wash them with baking soda. Baking soda cleans more thoroughly than using just water. To do this, place the strawberries in a bowl and sprinkle an appropriate amount of baking soda.
Next, add water and mix the baking soda thoroughly. Let the strawberries soak for about a minute.
Afterward, rinse them thoroughly with clean water several times. This method allows you to enjoy strawberries with peace of mind, free from worries about residual pesticides.
Third: Make Quick Strawberry Jam
Homemade strawberry jam is fresher than store-bought and can be made in just 10 minutes! Use a 2:1 ratio of strawberries to sugar plus 1–2 tablespoons of lemon juice for extra flavor.
1. Cut the strawberries into fingertip-sized pieces.
2. Place them in a microwave-safe container with sugar and lemon juice, using a container about five times larger than the ingredients to prevent overflow.
3. Microwave at 700W for 6 minutes, uncovered to let moisture evaporate, then rest for a minute.
4. Microwave again for 3-4 minutes, then let it cool—it will thicken as it sets.
The reason for not covering it is to let the moisture evaporate, creating a thicker, jam-like consistency. Once fully cooked, let the strawberry jam cool in a cool place. Although it may seem thin at first, it will thicken as it cools.
Spread it on bread, and you’ll experience a strawberry jam that’s fresher and tastier than any store-bought version.
Transfer it to a glass jar for storage, seal it tightly, and keep it in the refrigerator. For maximum freshness, it’s best to make smaller batches and enjoy them within 1–2 weeks.
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