Strawberry Jam With Frozen Strawberries No Pectin
Nothing beats the taste of homemade strawberry jam, especially when it's made with fresh, juicy strawberries. But what do you do when fresh strawberries are out of season, or you're short on time? The answer is simple - use frozen strawberries instead! Making strawberry jam with frozen strawberries is easy and just as delicious as using fresh ones. And the best part? You don't even need pectin to make it!
What is Pectin?
Pectin is a natural thickening agent that's commonly used in making jams and jellies. It's found in the cell walls of fruits and vegetables, and when heated with sugar and acid, it forms a gel-like substance that helps to thicken and set the jam. While pectin is a great way to ensure your jam sets properly, it's not always necessary. Some fruits, like strawberries, have enough natural pectin in them to thicken on their own.
Ingredients
To make strawberry jam with frozen strawberries, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups frozen strawberries
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
Instructions
Now that you have your ingredients, let's get started!
- Thaw the frozen strawberries in the refrigerator overnight.
- Pour the strawberries into a large pot and add the sugar and lemon juice.
- Stir the mixture over low heat until the sugar has dissolved.
- Turn the heat up to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally.
- Once the mixture has come to a boil, reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and reaches the desired consistency.
- Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool for a few minutes.
- Pour the jam into a jar or container and let it cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
That's it! You now have delicious homemade strawberry jam that's perfect for spreading on toast, scones, or even using as a topping for ice cream.
Tips for Making Perfect Strawberry Jam
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when making your strawberry jam:
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent the jam from sticking or burning.
- Stir the mixture frequently to prevent it from burning on the bottom of the pot.
- Use a candy thermometer to ensure the jam reaches the proper temperature (220°F) for setting.
- Skim off any foam that forms on the top of the jam with a spoon or ladle.
- Store your jam in clean, sterilized jars or containers to prevent spoilage.
Final Thoughts
Making strawberry jam with frozen strawberries is a great way to enjoy the taste of summer all year round. And the best part? You don't even need pectin to make it! With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can have delicious homemade jam that's perfect for spreading on your favorite baked goods. So why not give it a try?