Strawberry Jam with Lemon Thyme: A Fragrant and Flavorful Twist on a Classic Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the taste of fresh, homemade jam. Whether it’s spread on toast, spooned over pancakes, or used as a filling for pastries, fruit preserves add a burst of natural sweetness to any dish. While traditional strawberry jam is a beloved classic, infusing it with an unexpected ingredient—like lemon thyme—adds a layer of complexity and a fragrant herbal note that takes the flavor to a whole new level.

This strawberry jam with lemon thyme is a delightful twist on a classic recipe, combining the sweet, juicy taste of ripe strawberries with the zesty freshness of lemon thyme. The herb’s citrusy aroma enhances the bright flavor of the berries, creating a jam that’s perfect for spring and summer. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of making this unique and delicious jam from scratch. From preparing the ingredients to achieving the perfect consistency, we’ll cover everything you need to know.

Why Strawberry and Lemon Thyme Pair So Well Together

Strawberries are naturally sweet and fragrant, making them a perfect base for jams and preserves. The addition of lemon thyme, however, introduces an unexpected yet harmonious flavor combination. Here’s why these two ingredients work so wonderfully together:

The Sweetness of Strawberries

Strawberries are a popular fruit for making jams because they’re naturally sweet and have a pleasant tartness that balances well with sugar. They also cook down beautifully into a smooth, thick preserve that’s rich in flavor. Whether you use fresh or frozen strawberries, the results are always wonderfully sweet and jammy, with just the right hint of tartness.

The Brightness of Lemon Thyme

Lemon thyme is a type of thyme that has a mild, citrusy flavor, which is perfect for pairing with strawberries. The subtle lemony aroma enhances the fruitiness of the strawberries without overpowering their natural sweetness. The herbal notes of thyme add an earthy, aromatic quality that complements the bright, refreshing flavor of the berries.

When combined, strawberry and lemon thyme create a jam that is both sweet and savory, with a perfect balance of fruity and herbal flavors.

Ingredients You Will Need

To make this strawberry jam with lemon thyme, gather the following ingredients:

• 4 cups fresh strawberries (hulled and chopped)
• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon thyme leaves (or 1 tablespoon dried lemon thyme)
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
• ½ teaspoon lemon zest (optional, for added citrus flavor)
• 1 package (1.75 oz) fruit pectin (optional, for added consistency)
• ¼ cup water

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Strawberries

Start by washing the strawberries thoroughly. Remove the green tops (the hulls) and chop the strawberries into small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the more quickly they will break down while cooking. If you prefer a smoother jam, you can puree the strawberries in a blender or food processor, but leaving some pieces intact adds texture to the final product.

Step 2: Infuse the Lemon Thyme

To infuse the lemon thyme into the jam, place the fresh thyme leaves (or dried thyme) in a small saucepan with ¼ cup of water. Heat the water gently over medium heat, allowing the thyme to steep and release its aromatic oils. Simmer the mixture for about 5-7 minutes, then remove the pan from the heat and let it cool. This step allows the thyme’s citrusy aroma to permeate the liquid, which will then be incorporated into the jam.

Step 3: Cook the Strawberries

In a large pot, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to prevent burning. As the strawberries cook, they will release their juices and begin to break down. If you’re using fruit pectin for added thickness, stir it into the mixture at this stage.

Step 4: Add the Lemon Thyme Infusion

Once the strawberries are boiling and have softened, strain the lemon thyme infusion into the pot, discarding the thyme leaves. Stir the mixture to combine, ensuring the herbal infusion is evenly distributed throughout the strawberries. You can also add the lemon zest at this point for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Step 5: Simmer and Thicken

Continue to cook the strawberry-lemon thyme mixture, stirring occasionally. The jam will begin to thicken as it simmers. Depending on how thick you like your jam, this process can take 20-30 minutes. You can test the consistency of the jam by placing a small spoonful on a chilled plate and letting it sit for a minute. Run your finger through the jam; if it wrinkles and holds its shape, it’s ready to be jarred.

Step 6: Can or Store the Jam

Once your jam has thickened to the desired consistency, remove the pot from the heat. Pour the hot jam into sterilized jars, leaving about ¼ inch of space at the top. Seal the jars tightly with lids and let them cool to room temperature. If you plan to store the jam for a longer period, you can process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes to ensure they seal properly.

For immediate use, the jam can be refrigerated and enjoyed within a few weeks.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Your strawberry jam with lemon thyme is now ready to enjoy! Spread it on toast, use it as a filling for pastries, or pair it with cheese for a delightful snack. The bright, citrusy flavor of the lemon thyme brings a new dimension to the sweet strawberries, making each spoonful a burst of deliciousness.

Variations of Strawberry Jam with Lemon Thyme

While this recipe is perfect on its own, there are plenty of ways to make it your own. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Mixed Berry Jam: Add raspberries or blueberries to the mix for a vibrant, multi-berry jam that pairs beautifully with the lemon thyme.
• Spiced Jam: For a warming touch, add a pinch of ground cinnamon or ginger to the jam for extra depth of flavor.
• Citrus Burst: Boost the citrus flavor by adding orange zest or orange juice alongside the lemon juice.
• Honey-Sweetened Jam: Replace the sugar with honey or a natural sweetener like agave syrup for a different sweetness profile.

Tips for Perfect Strawberry Jam with Lemon Thyme

1. Use Fresh Thyme: Fresh lemon thyme will give the jam the best flavor, but if you only have dried thyme, use half the amount called for in the recipe.
2. Test the Jam’s Consistency: If you don’t have a candy thermometer, use the plate test mentioned earlier to ensure the jam reaches the right consistency before jarring.
3. Sterilize Your Jars: Properly sterilize your jars before filling them with hot jam to prevent spoilage. Boil them in water for 10 minutes or run them through the dishwasher before use.
4. Adjust Sweetness: Depending on the sweetness of your strawberries, you may want to adjust the amount of sugar used. Taste the mixture while cooking and add more sugar if necessary.

Why You’ll Love This Jam

This strawberry jam with lemon thyme is the perfect blend of sweet and savory, with the herbal note of thyme balancing the bright, juicy flavor of the strawberries. It’s a unique twist on traditional strawberry jam and adds a lovely depth of flavor. Whether you enjoy it as a spread, in desserts, or paired with cheese, it’s sure to become a favorite.

Conclusion

Making strawberry jam with lemon thyme is a simple way to elevate your homemade preserves. With just a few fresh ingredients, you can create a jam that’s bursting with vibrant flavors. The sweet strawberries and aromatic lemon thyme combine beautifully to make a spread that’s perfect for any occasion. Try this recipe today, and experience the unique, refreshing taste of strawberry jam with a twist!