Strawberry Jam Recipe Without Pectin And Low Sugar
Nothing beats the taste of homemade strawberry jam. It is a perfect spread for your morning toast or an excellent topping for your pancakes or waffles. However, most strawberry jam recipes require pectin, a natural thickener that is derived from fruits, to achieve the perfect consistency. And while pectin is widely available in most grocery stores, it can be pricey and may contain additives that you would like to avoid.
The good news is that you can make strawberry jam without pectin and with low sugar. This recipe is easy to follow, and you only need a few ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. Plus, it's a healthier option that will satisfy your sweet tooth without the added calories.
Ingredients:
- 2 pounds fresh strawberries, hulled and sliced
- 1/2 cup granulated sugar
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Instructions:
- In a large saucepan, combine the sliced strawberries, sugar, and lemon juice. Mix well and let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the strawberries to release their natural juices.
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and bring the mixture to a boil while stirring occasionally. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes, or until the mixture thickens and reduces by about a third.
- To check if the jam is ready, spoon a small amount onto a plate and place it in the refrigerator for a few minutes. If it sets and thickens, it's ready. If it's still runny, continue simmering for a few more minutes and try again.
- Once the jam is ready, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Pour the jam into sterilized jars, leaving about a 1/4 inch space at the top. Seal the jars tightly and let them cool to room temperature.
- You can store the jam in the refrigerator for up to three weeks or freeze it for up to six months.
Tips:
- Use fresh strawberries, if possible. Frozen strawberries will work, but they may produce more liquid and take longer to cook.
- You can adjust the amount of sugar to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter jam, you can increase the amount of sugar. However, keep in mind that sugar is a preservative, and reducing the amount may shorten the shelf life of the jam.
- Adding lemon juice will help balance the sweetness and enhance the flavor of the strawberries. You can also substitute it with lime or orange juice.
- To sterilize the jars, wash them with hot soapy water and rinse well. Place them in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and let the jars boil for 10 minutes. Remove them from the water and let them dry completely before filling them with the jam.
- If you prefer a smoother jam, you can puree the strawberries with an immersion blender or food processor before cooking them.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to make strawberry jam without pectin and with low sugar, you can enjoy this delicious spread without worrying about the additives or the excess calories. It's a simple recipe that you can customize to your liking, and it's perfect for beginners or veterans in the kitchen. Plus, it's a great way to use fresh strawberries when they are in season or to preserve them for later. Try it today and see how easy and tasty it is!