Description
Strawberry lemonade concentrate is a delightful beverage that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the tanginess of lemons, making it a perfect treat for warm days. This canning recipe allows you to create a refreshing drink that you can enjoy throughout the year. With just a few simple ingredients and some canning know-how, you can preserve this delicious concentrate for future use.
Ingredients
- Fresh strawberries, hulled and mashed (4 cups)
- Fresh lemon juice (1 cup)
- Sugar (2 cups)
- Water (6 cups)
- Fruit pectin (optional, for thicker consistency)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries
Wash and hull the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the green tops and any damaged parts, ensuring you have clean fruit for your concentrate.
Step 2: Blend the Strawberries
Place the cleaned strawberries in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth, creating a strawberry puree.
Step 3: Cook the Strawberry Mixture
In a large pot, combine the strawberry puree with water and sugar. Stir the mixture over medium heat until the sugar completely dissolves.
Step 4: Add Lemon Juice
Squeeze fresh lemons to obtain the juice and add it to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients, enhancing the flavor of your concentrate.
Step 5: Simmer the Mixture
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes. This process helps to develop the flavors and concentrate the mixture.
Step 6: Can the Concentrate
Prepare your canning jars by sterilizing them. Pour the hot strawberry lemonade concentrate into the prepared jars, leaving some headspace, and seal them according to the canning method you are using.
Step 7: Process the Jars
Process the jars in a water bath canner for the recommended time for your altitude. This step ensures that the concentrate is safe for long-term storage.
Step 8: Cool and Store
Allow the jars to cool completely on a kitchen towel or rack. Once cooled, check the seals and store the concentrate in a cool, dark place.
Notes
Fresh Ingredients
Using fresh, ripe strawberries and lemons will significantly enhance the flavor of your strawberry lemonade concentrate.
Storage Tips
For the best quality and taste, use the concentrate within a year. Unsealed jars should be refrigerated and used within a few weeks.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes