Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning

A delicious Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning is a fantastic way to enjoy a refreshing drink any time of year. This sweet and tart blend uses fresh strawberries and lemon juice, creating a versatile concentrate that can be used for parties, picnics, or simply to brighten up your day. Homemade strawberry lemonade concentrate ensures you have a delightful beverage ready whenever the mood strikes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: With just a few steps, you can create a delicious concentrate that lasts for months.
• Fresh Flavor: The combination of ripe strawberries and zesty lemons delivers an invigorating taste that’s perfect for warm days.
• Versatile Uses: Use it to make refreshing drinks, as a dessert topping, or even in cocktails (non-alcoholic).
• Perfect for Gifting: Jars of concentrate make lovely gifts for friends and family, especially during the summer.
• Preserves Seasonal Fruits: Capture the essence of summer strawberries by canning them for later enjoyment.

Tools and Preparation

Before you dive into making your strawberry lemonade concentrate, gather your tools and prepare your workspace. This setup will ensure a smooth canning process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Water bath canner
• Pint jars
• Lids and bands
• Food processor
• Large stainless steel saucepan

Importance of Each Tool

• Water bath canner: Essential for safely processing jars to create a vacuum seal that preserves your concentrate.
• Food processor: Makes pureeing strawberries quick and easy, ensuring a smooth texture for your drink.
• Pint jars: Ideal size for storing your concentrate; they are easy to handle and perfect for gifting.

Ingredients

A sweet and tart blend of fresh strawberries and lemon juice, canned to be shelf stable for fresh strawberry lemonade any time of year.

For the Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate

• 6 cups strawberries (cleaned, tops removed)
• 4 cups lemon juice (bottled, fresh, or a combination)
• 6 cups granulated sugar

How to Make Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning

Step 1: Prep for Canning

Prepare your water bath canner with enough water to cover the jars by at least an inch. Gather your pint jars, lids, and bands. Place the lids and bands in simmering water to soften the seals. Heat the jars but do not sterilize them.

Step 2: Puree Berries

Puree the strawberries in a food processor fitted with the metal blade until completely liquified. Some seeds may remain, but there should be no chunks left. Transfer this puree into a large stainless steel saucepan.

Step 3: Add Remaining Ingredients and Heat

Add the lemon juice and sugar into the strawberry puree. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it reaches 190-200 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid boiling; just heat gently. If foam appears on top, skim it off with a large spoon.

Step 4: Fill Jars

Fill each clean, hot pint jar with the lemonade concentrate while leaving about 1/4 inch of headspace at the top. Carefully remove lids and bands from simmering water; secure them onto jars until fingertip tight.

Step 5: Process

Lower the filled jars into your boiling water canner. Process them at a full boil with the lid on for 15 minutes. Once done, remove jars and let them sit undisturbed on the counter for 12-24 hours or until they seal properly. When pressed, sealed lids should be firm without any movement. Any unsealed jars can be stored in the refrigerator and used within two weeks. Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place where they will last up to two years.

How to Serve Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning

Strawberry lemonade concentrate is a versatile beverage that can be enjoyed in various delightful ways. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply looking to refresh yourself, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your experience.

Classic Strawberry Lemonade

• Combine equal parts strawberry lemonade concentrate and water or sparkling water. Serve over ice and garnish with fresh strawberries or lemon slices.

Strawberry Lemonade Slushie

• Blend the concentrate with ice until slushy. This icy treat is perfect for hot days and can be topped with whipped cream for an extra indulgence.

Lemonade Float

• Pour the strawberry lemonade concentrate over a scoop of vanilla ice cream in a glass. The combination of flavors creates a creamy, refreshing dessert drink.

Cocktail Option

• Mix the concentrate with soda or tonic water for a fun mocktail. Add fresh mint leaves for a burst of flavor and aroma.

Fruity Ice Cubes

• Freeze portions of the concentrate in ice cube trays. Use these fruity cubes in cocktails, iced tea, or to cool down other beverages without diluting their flavor.

How to Perfect Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning

To ensure your strawberry lemonade concentrate turns out just right, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always select ripe strawberries and fresh lemons for the best flavor. The quality of your ingredients directly affects the taste of your concentrate.
• Adjust Sweetness: Depending on your preference, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar used in the recipe. Test it as you mix to achieve your ideal sweetness level.
• Skim Foam: When heating your mixture, make sure to skim off any foam that forms on top. This helps achieve a clearer final product and enhances presentation.
• Proper Jar Storage: Store sealed jars in a cool, dark place to maximize shelf life. Avoid places with fluctuating temperatures, which can affect the sealing process.
• Check Seals: After processing, ensure that jar lids are sealed properly by pressing them down; they should not move at all. Any unsealed jars can be refrigerated and used promptly.

Best Side Dishes for Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning

Pairing side dishes with your strawberry lemonade concentrate can enhance your meal experience. Here are some delicious options to complement this refreshing drink:

1. Grilled Chicken Salad: A light salad featuring grilled chicken breast, mixed greens, and a tangy vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the lemonade.
2. Caprese Skewers: Fresh mozzarella balls, cherry tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a simple yet elegant appetizer that balances flavors well.
3. Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad tossed with cucumbers, bell peppers, and lemon dressing provides a nutritious side dish that matches beautifully with strawberry lemonade.
4. Veggie Spring Rolls: Brightly colored spring rolls filled with crisp vegetables and served with peanut dipping sauce offer a crunchy contrast to the drink’s sweetness.
5. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives, cheese, and Italian dressing adds heartiness while still being light enough not to overshadow the lemonade’s flavors.
6. Fruit Platter: A variety of fresh fruits such as watermelon, pineapple, and berries creates a colorful spread that complements the fruity notes of the concentrate.
7. Cheese Board: A selection of cheeses paired with crackers and dried fruits makes for an inviting snack or appetizer alongside your drinks.
8. Savory Scones: Cheese scones or herb-infused scones add richness and texture that contrast nicely with the tartness of strawberry lemonade.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning, it’s important to avoid common pitfalls that can affect the quality and safety of your concentrate.

• Skipping the prep: Failing to prepare your jars and equipment can lead to contamination. Always ensure your jars are heated and lids are simmering before use.
• Overheating the mixture: Heating the concentrate beyond 200 degrees can alter the flavor. Keep a close eye on the temperature and avoid boiling.
• Not leaving enough headspace: Filling jars too full can prevent a proper seal. Always leave 1/4 inch of headspace at the top of each jar.
• Ignoring seal checks: If you don’t confirm that jars have sealed properly, you risk spoilage. After processing, check that lids are firm and do not pop back when pressed.
• Inadequate storage conditions: Storing sealed jars in bright light or warm areas can reduce shelf life. Store them in a cool, dark place for best results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers to maintain freshness.
• Use within 2 weeks for optimal flavor.

Freezing Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with date; use within 6 months for best quality.

Reheating Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently to ensure even warming.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat while stirring until heated but not boiling.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning last?

When stored properly in a cool, dark place, it can last up to 2 years.

Can I customize my Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning?

Yes! You can adjust sweetness by altering the sugar amount or experiment with different fruits like raspberries or blueberries.

What type of sugar is best for this recipe?

Granulated sugar is ideal as it dissolves easily and balances the tartness of lemons and strawberries.

Can I use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled?

Absolutely! Fresh lemon juice will enhance flavor but ensure you measure accurately.

Final Thoughts

Strawberry Lemonade Concentrate for Canning is not only delicious but also versatile. Perfect for summer gatherings or a refreshing drink anytime, you can customize it with various fruits or adjust sweetness to suit your taste. Give this recipe a try and enjoy homemade lemonade whenever you crave it!

Print