For the prep:

Cup of Yum
1. To ensure success, read the Café Tips above in the post before starting this recipe.
2. Wash and rinse glass jars (or plastic containers) and lids in the dishwasher or with hot soapy water. Dry thoroughly.
3. Stem and crush strawberries. I use a potato masher but you can also pulse the berries on and off a few times in a blender or food processor - just be sure you leave it a little chunky.

For the jam:

1. Measure exactly 2 cups of the prepared fruit into a large microwave-safe bowl. (Use a dry measuring up to measure the crushed strawberries and level it off at the top with a flat-edge knife - don't be tempted to use extra berries!)
2. Add the 4 cups of sugar and stir well for 1 minute. (Again, measure the sugar precisely, using a dry measuring up and leveling it off. You can also weigh the sugar. It should be 800g )
3. *Don't be tempted to go with less sugar as the sugar helps the jam to set properly. If you prefer less sugar, go with a low-sugar or no-sugar pectin and follow the directions on the package, not this recipe.
4. Place the bowl in the microwave on high power for 3 minutes. (Mixture will not cook but will become warm enough for the sugar to dissolve). Remove from microwave and stir well for another minute.
5. Allow the strawberry mixture to sit for 2 hours, giving it a good stir about every 30 minutes. Take a taste to make sure the sugar is dissolved. If it still has a bit of a grainy texture, stir for another minute or two until the sugar is well dissolved.(When the sugar is well-dissolved the mixture will actually deepen in color and lose its "cloudiness". That's when you're ready for the next step.)
6. Combine the liquid pectin and lemon juice in a small bowl. Add to strawberry mixture; stir for 3 minutes (no cheating, set a timer).
7. Fill containers to within ½ inch of the top. Don't fill any higher as the mixture will expand a bit in the freezer.
8. Wipe off the top edges of containers and cover with lids. Let stand at room temperature for 24 hours.

To store:

1. Refrigerate up to 3 weeks or freeze up to 1 year. Thaw in the refrigerator.