Are you ready to experience the burst of summer sunshine in every spoonful? Forget store-bought jams packed with added sugar and artificial ingredients. This recipe shows you how to make homemade strawberry jam with significantly less sugar, retaining the vibrant flavor and beautiful color of fresh strawberries. It’s a delicious and healthy treat perfect for spreading on toast, using in baking, or simply enjoying by the spoonful. This easy recipe is perfect for beginners looking for quick dinner ideas or healthy meals, and experienced cooks will appreciate the refined approach to sugar reduction. It’s a testament to the magic of homemade cooking and the best recipes often involve simple ingredients, expertly combined.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg ripe strawberries, hulled and sliced (organic strawberries are recommended for the best flavor)
- 300g granulated sugar (adjust to your preferred sweetness)
- 1/4 cup lemon juice (freshly squeezed is best!)
- 1 packet (1.75 oz) powdered pectin (helps set the jam)
Equipment:
- Large saucepan
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Sterilized jars and lids
- Jar lifter (optional, but helpful!)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preparing the Strawberries
Gently wash and hull the strawberries. Slice them into roughly equal-sized pieces. Smaller pieces will result in a smoother jam.
Step 2: Combining Ingredients
In your large saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, lemon juice, and powdered pectin. Stir everything well to ensure the pectin is evenly distributed.
Step 3: Cooking the Jam
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring constantly. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and continue stirring frequently. This prevents sticking and ensures even cooking. The mixture should maintain a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Setting the Jam
Continue to simmer for approximately 10-15 minutes, or until the jam reaches setting point. To test for setting point, place a small amount of jam on a chilled plate. Let it cool for a minute, then push the jam with your finger. If the surface wrinkles, it’s ready.
Step 5: Jarring the Jam
Carefully ladle the hot jam into your sterilized jars, leaving about ½ inch of headspace. Wipe the rims clean, then seal the jars tightly with the lids.
Step 6: Processing (Optional)
For longer shelf life, you can process the jars in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes. This creates a vacuum seal. If you skip this step, store your jam in the refrigerator and consume within a few weeks.
Tips for the Best Strawberry Jam:
- Use ripe strawberries: The riper the strawberries, the more flavorful your jam will be.
- Adjust sugar to taste: This recipe uses less sugar than traditional recipes. Taste the jam as it cooks and adjust the sugar accordingly. You could also consider using alternative sweeteners like honey or maple syrup.
- Don't overcook: Overcooking can result in a tough or burnt jam.
- Sterilize your jars: This is crucial for preventing spoilage. Wash jars and lids in hot, soapy water, then rinse thoroughly and sterilize in boiling water for at least 10 minutes.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cinnamon or a few cardamom pods for a warm, spiced strawberry jam.
- Add other fruits: Mix in raspberries, blueberries, or blackberries for a delicious mixed berry jam.
- Make it chunky: For a chunkier jam, roughly chop the strawberries instead of slicing them thinly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on the exact amount of sugar used. However, using less sugar will significantly reduce the calorie and sugar content compared to traditional recipes. For a more precise calculation, you can use a nutrition calculator, inputting the specific ingredients and quantities used.
This homemade strawberry jam is a delightful treat, perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the sweet taste of summer, knowing you’ve created a delicious and healthier alternative to store-bought jams. Making your own jam is a rewarding experience, showcasing the joy of homemade cooking and the satisfaction of creating something delicious and healthy from scratch.