Strawberry Preserves with Black Pepper and Balsamic Vinegar

Ingredients

• 2 cups strawberries (about 1 pint), trimmed and quartered
• 1 1/2 cups sugar
• 3 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 3 tablespoons water
• 1 teaspoon cracked black pepper

Directions

In a small heavy saucepan bring all ingredients to a boil, stirring, and skim surface. Simmer mixture, stirring and skimming foam occasionally, 15 minutes, or until thickened and translucent. Remove pan from heat and cool preserves completely. Preserves keep, covered and chilled, 1 month.