Strawberry Jam Without High Fructose Corn Syrup
Do you love to spread the sweet and tangy taste of strawberry jam on your toast in the morning, but hate the unhealthy high fructose corn syrup found in most store-bought brands? You're not alone! Many people are looking for healthier options when it comes to their favorite spreads, and luckily, making strawberry jam without high fructose corn syrup is easy and delicious.
Why Avoid High Fructose Corn Syrup?
High fructose corn syrup (HFCS) is a sweetener that is commonly used in processed foods and drinks. It is made from corn starch and is cheaper than other sweeteners like sugar. However, many studies have linked HFCS to a number of health problems, including obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. Some people also find that consuming HFCS leads to digestive issues or headaches.
In addition to the health concerns, many people prefer to avoid HFCS because it is a highly processed ingredient that is often found in foods that are low in nutrients and high in calories. By making your own strawberry jam without HFCS, you can control what goes into your food and enjoy a healthier, more natural option.
How to Make Strawberry Jam Without High Fructose Corn Syrup
Making strawberry jam without high fructose corn syrup is easy and only requires a few ingredients. Here's what you'll need:
- 2 pounds of fresh strawberries, washed and hulled
- 1 cup of granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- Cut the strawberries into small pieces and place them in a large pot.
- Add the sugar and lemon juice to the pot and stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce the heat and let the mixture simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until it thickens and reaches a jam-like consistency.
- If desired, stir in the vanilla extract.
- Transfer the jam to a clean jar and let it cool before refrigerating.
That's it! In just a few simple steps, you can have delicious homemade strawberry jam without any high fructose corn syrup.
Benefits of Making Your Own Jam
In addition to avoiding high fructose corn syrup, there are many benefits to making your own jam at home. Here are a few:
- You can control what goes into your food and avoid artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
- You can make small batches and experiment with different flavors and ingredients.
- Homemade jam makes a great gift for friends and family.
- Making your own food can be a fun and rewarding hobby.
Conclusion
If you love the taste of strawberry jam but want to avoid high fructose corn syrup, making your own at home is a great option. With just a few simple ingredients and some patience, you can have a delicious and healthy spread that you can enjoy on toast, biscuits, or even mixed into yogurt or oatmeal.
So go ahead and give it a try! Your taste buds (and your health) will thank you.