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How to make strawberry jelly sauce

Strawberry jelly sauce is a delightful addition to many desserts, from cheesecakes and ice creams to pancakes and waffles. This sweet and tangy sauce is easy to make and can elevate any dish with its vibrant flavor and beautiful color. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a delicious strawberry jelly sauce at home using simple ingredients and easy steps.

Ingredients Needed

To make the best strawberry jelly sauce, you will need the following ingredients:

• Fresh strawberries: 2 cups (hulled and sliced)
• Sugar: 1 cup
• Lemon juice: 1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
• Water: 1/2 cup
• Cornstarch: 1 tablespoon (mixed with 2 tablespoons of water to form a slurry)
• Vanilla extract: 1 teaspoon

Optional add-ins for flavor variations:

• Mint leaves: A few (for a refreshing twist)
• Orange zest: 1 teaspoon (for added citrus flavor)

Equipment Required

The equipment needed for this recipe includes:

• Medium saucepan
• Whisk
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Heatproof spatula
• Fine mesh strainer (optional)

Preparation Steps

Before you begin, gather all your ingredients and equipment. Wash and hull the strawberries, then slice them to ensure they cook evenly.

Making the Strawberry Jelly Sauce

1. Combine Strawberries and Sugar: In a medium saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries and sugar. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their juices.
2. Add Lemon Juice and Water: Add the lemon juice and water to the saucepan, stirring to combine.

Cooking the Sauce

1. Heat the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat. Stir the mixture frequently until it comes to a gentle boil.
2. Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the strawberries are soft and the mixture has thickened slightly.

Thickening the Sauce

1. Add Cornstarch Slurry: Stir in the cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with water) into the sauce. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens to your desired consistency.

Flavor Enhancements

1. Add Vanilla Extract: Remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
2. Optional Add-ins: At this stage, you can add finely chopped mint leaves or orange zest for additional flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Strawberry jelly sauce can be used in a variety of ways:

• Drizzle over cheesecake, ice cream, or pancakes
• Use as a filling for cakes and pastries
• Serve with yogurt or oatmeal for a fruity breakfast

Storing and Reheating

1. Storing: Let the strawberry jelly sauce cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to one week.
2. Reheating: To reheat, warm the sauce gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short bursts, stirring between each burst.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking: Avoid boiling the sauce for too long, as it can become too thick or develop a burnt taste.
2. Not Stirring Enough: Ensure you stir frequently to prevent the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Health Considerations

1. Healthier Alternatives: For a healthier version, you can use a sugar substitute like stevia or honey instead of granulated sugar.
2. Portion Control: Enjoy the strawberry jelly sauce in moderation to keep your dessert indulgence balanced.

Making strawberry jelly sauce at home is simple and rewarding. With just a few ingredients and easy steps, you can create a versatile and delicious sauce that enhances any dessert. Try this recipe and enjoy the sweet, tangy taste of homemade strawberry jelly sauce!