At Jhelum Kinare, we are fortunate to be surrounded by the beauty of Kashmir’s natural bounty, and one of the most delightful seasonal treats is the fresh, plump strawberries that grow in the pristine mountains of Gulmarg. These strawberries, grown in the cool, fresh air of the mountains, have a distinct sweetness and flavor that make them perfect for turning into a delicious homemade jam. This strawberry jam has become a Jhelum Kinare specialty, and in this blog, we’re sharing our beloved recipe, so you can recreate the essence of Kashmir in your own kitchen.
Whether you spread it on a warm piece of toast, pair it with your favorite dessert, or simply enjoy it by the spoonful, this strawberry jam will bring the taste of Gulmarg’s mountain strawberries into your home, preserving the essence of Kashmir's natural beauty for months to come.
Ingredients:
500g fresh Gulmarg mountain strawberries (or locally sourced, high-quality strawberries) 400g granulated sugar 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1/4 cup water 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Strawberries: Start by washing the Gulmarg mountain strawberries thoroughly. Remove the green stems and hulls, and slice the strawberries into halves or quarters. For a smoother jam, you can finely chop them, but for a chunkier texture, leave them in larger pieces.
Cook the Strawberries: In a large, heavy-bottomed saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, sugar, and water. Gently stir to coat the strawberries in the sugar. Place the saucepan over medium heat and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves and the strawberries begin to break down. This should take around 10-15 minutes.
Add Lemon Juice and Vanilla: Once the strawberries have softened and started releasing their juices, add the lemon juice to the mixture. The acidity from the lemon helps balance the sweetness of the strawberries and aids in the jam’s setting. For added depth of flavor, you can also stir in 1/2 teaspoon of vanilla extract.
Simmer and Thicken: Reduce the heat and continue to cook the strawberry mixture for another 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally as it thickens. To check if the jam is ready, drop a spoonful onto a chilled plate. If it wrinkles when pushed, it's done. If not, continue simmering for a few more minutes.
Jar the Jam: Once your jam has reached the perfect consistency, remove it from the heat and allow it to cool slightly before transferring it into sterilized jars. Be sure to leave some space at the top of the jar to allow for expansion during storage.
Seal and Store: Seal the jars tightly and allow them to cool completely before storing in the refrigerator. Your homemade strawberry jam will stay fresh for up to three weeks. For longer shelf life, you can process the jars in a hot water bath for 10 minutes.
Serving Suggestions:
On Toast: Spread this luscious strawberry jam on toasted bread or scones for a simple and satisfying breakfast or snack. With Cheese: Pair the jam with a creamy cheese like brie or cream cheese for a savory-sweet flavor combination. In Desserts: Use the jam as a filling for pastries, thumbprint cookies, or cakes to add a burst of sweet strawberry flavor. As a Gift: This homemade jam makes a wonderful, heartfelt gift. Packaged in decorative jars, it’s perfect for sharing the taste of Kashmir with friends and family.
Conclusion:
Making strawberry jam with Gulmarg’s mountain strawberries is more than just a recipe—it’s a way to capture the essence of Kashmir’s natural beauty and flavors. These high-altitude strawberries are a true gift from the mountains, and turning them into a homemade jam preserves their sweetness for months to come. At Jhelum Kinare, we cherish the simple pleasures of life, and this strawberry jam has become a beloved Jhelum Kinare specialty—a perfect representation of the flavors of Kashmir—authentic, fresh, and full of love.
Enjoy the taste of Gulmarg in every jar.