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Strawberry Rhubarb Preserves Recipe

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Delicious homemade Strawberry Rhubarb Preserves, combining fresh strawberries and tart rhubarb with sugar, lemon juice, and vanilla for a perfectly balanced, sweet and tangy spread. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, these preserves are ideal for toast, desserts, or gifting.

Ingredients

Fruit and Sweetener

  • 3 cups chopped fresh strawberries
  • 3 cups chopped fresh rhubarb
  • 1 ½ cups granulated sugar

Flavorings

  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon lemon zest
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Instructions

  1. Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, gently mix together the chopped strawberries, chopped rhubarb, and granulated sugar until well combined. Then transfer the mixture to a large saucepan.
  2. Add Citrus: Stir in the lemon juice and lemon zest thoroughly. Let the mixture rest at room temperature for 15-30 minutes to macerate and allow the fruit to release its juices, enhancing the flavor and texture.
  3. Simmer the Mixture: Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the fruit mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring frequently to prevent sticking or burning.
  4. Cook and Thicken: Reduce the heat to medium-low and continue to cook the preserves, stirring often, for 30-40 minutes. The fruit should break down, and the mixture will thicken to your desired consistency during this time.
  5. Finish with Vanilla: Remove the saucepan from heat and stir in the vanilla extract to add a subtle aromatic sweetness.
  6. Cool and Store: Allow the preserves to cool slightly before transferring them into clean jars. Store the preserves in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks or freeze them for longer storage.

Notes

  • For longer shelf life, consider properly sealing and canning the preserves using appropriate canning methods.
  • You can use frozen strawberries and rhubarb instead of fresh; just be sure to thaw and drain any excess moisture before cooking.
  • If the preserves are too runny, mash some pieces of strawberry and rhubarb during cooking to thicken the texture.