Happy Healthy Families

'Tis the season for Strawberries and Blueberries! So why not take advantage of all these delicious berries now, and make some jams that you can use for Christmas gifts? The Barefoot Contessa has a wonderful recipe that is easy and delicious!

Easy Homemade Strawberry Jam (from Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa)

Ingredients:

3 Pints Fresh Strawberries
3 cups superfine sugar (I think two cups works great, especially if strawberries are sweet!)
2 Tbs. Grand Marnier or other Orange Liqueur
1/2 Granny Smith apple-peeled, cored and diced
1/2 cup fresh blueberries

Rinse 3 pts. of fresh strawberries under cold running water.
Drain and Hull.
Cut large strawberries in half or quarters, and leave small strawberries whole.
Place strawberries in heavy pot. Add 3 cups superfine sugar, from 2 (1b. bags)
Add 2 Tbs. Grand Marnier or other orange-flavored liqueur.
Bring to boil over medium heat, stirring often.
Add apple and blueberries, while keeping the mixture at a rolling boil.
Continue to stir jam occasionally until mixture reaches 220 degrees farenheit (using candy thermometer) This should take about 25-25 minutes.
Skim and discard any foam that rises to the top.
Allow jam to cool to room temperature,

Pack and seal in canning jars according to manufacturer's instructions.

Makes about three cups.

Got a Homemade Christmas Gift Idea to share? Please let me know if you would like to write a post on 101 ways to save sharing your idea...Thanks!