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Prepare the Strawberries: Start by hulling and chopping the fresh strawberries. You can mash them slightly with a fork or potato masher to release some juice, but leave a few small chunks for texture if you prefer.
Cook the Mixture: In a medium-sized saucepan, combine the chopped strawberries, water, and sugar. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, or until the strawberries soften and the sugar dissolves completely.
Add Pectin or Gelatin: If you're using fruit pectin, add it to the saucepan according to the package instructions. If you prefer to use gelatin, dissolve the gelatin in a little cold water before adding it to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
Simmer and Thicken: Once the pectin or gelatin has dissolved, bring the mixture to a boil and cook for 2-3 minutes until it begins to thicken. Add the lemon juice and vanilla extract (if using), stirring to incorporate.
Cool and Set: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let the jelly cool for a few minutes. Pour the mixture into jars or small dessert cups and allow it to set at room temperature for about 30 minutes. Then, refrigerate the jelly for at least 4 hours, or until fully set.
Serving and Storage Tips:
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