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Wholesome Delights: Crafting Quick & Easy Strawberry Jam with Natural Ingredients
It’s a wonderful day when I make strawberry jam in my kitchen. I usually tackle making jam while doing something else because it’s that easy. And it smells so good! This quick and easy recipe is not only a breeze to make but also packs a punch in terms of flavor and health benefits. I spread it on morning toast and my kids love drizzling it over desserts. Making strawberry jam with natural ingredients is simple, and great to have on hand.
Why Natural Ingredients Matter when Making Jam
Using natural ingredients in recipes keeps preservatives out of your food, and I find that things taste better when fresh. If you are worried about how long this jam will last in your fridge, make less or freeze some. This jam should last about a month in the refrigerator. But if you are like us—you’ll use it quickly. When opting for fresh/frozen strawberries or mixed berries, you avoid the preservatives and artificial additives in most store-bought jams. Plus, making homemade jam allows you to control the sweetness level, making it perfect for those looking to reduce their sugar intake.
Strawberry Jam Adaptability and Versatility
One of the best things about this recipe is its adaptability. You can use fresh or frozen berries, and you get the freedom to adjust the sweetness to suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a chunky, rustic jam or a smooth, pureed one, the choice is yours. And with just a few simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a delicious spread perfect for topping everything from toast to yogurt.
Budget-Friendly Benefits of Making Strawberry Jam
The cost of a natural ingredient jam low in sugar is typically 3x the amount versus when you make your own. Plus, the cost savings are greater when buying in bulk or using frozen berries.
I like to dump a frozen bag of berries in a pot on the stove while doing something else in the kitchen because the process is fairly hands-off. Clean-up is simple. With just a few dollars and minutes, you can whip up a batch that will last you for weeks.
Ways to Enjoy Your Homemade Jam with Natural Ingredients
Once your jam is ready, the possibilities are numerous.
- Spread it on toast or a biscuit for a classic breakfast treat.
- Top your porridge or oatmeal with it to add a burst of flavor.
- Swirl it into yogurt for a healthy and delicious snack.
- Drizzle it over pancakes for a sweet and fruity kick.
- Add it on top of ice cream for a decadent dessert.
- Use it as a filling for cakes, pastries, or thumbprint cookies.
- Get adventurous and use it as a glaze for grilled meats.
- Puree and reduce even further to make a Strawberry Cake.
- Add to a popsicle for a swirl of color and flavor. Our fudgesicle recipe would be a great choice. Or something fruity like lemonade or mango.
Storage and Longevity of Refrigerator Jam
Store your homemade jam in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator. It will last two weeks to a month. Alternatively, you can freeze it, allowing you to enjoy the taste of spring and summer berries all year round.
Grab your berries and get jamming! I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as we do. The smells alone that fill the kitchen when it simmers make this recipe worth making in my opinion.
Quick & Easy Low Sugar Strawberry Jam
Ingredients
- 16 oz strawberries or mixed berries frozen or fresh
- 2 teaspoons maple syrup adjust to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla paste
Instructions
- Place the saucepan over medium heat and add your berries. Stir well to combine. The berries will start to release juices.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- As the berries are cooking you can leave them as they are for a rustic thicker jam, mash them using a potato masher or fork until you reach your desired consistency. Or, if you prefer a smoother jam, you can puree the berries with a stick blender or food processor.
- After 15-20 minutes, the jam should thicken and reduce slightly. Taste and add the maple syrup and vanilla paste to the mashed berries a little at a time until you reach your desired flavor.
- Once the jam has reached your desired consistency and flavor (it will continue to thicken as it cools), remove it from the heat and let it cool completely.
- Transfer the cooled jam to a clean jar or container with a tight-fitting lid and refrigerate until ready to use. The jam will keep in the refrigerator for up to two weeks.
Notes
- Customization: Feel free to adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less maple syrup according to your preferences. You could also use turbinado sugar, caster sugar, or honey to sweeten. Or, if the berries are sweet enough, leave the sweetener out completely.
- Texture: The jam will thicken as it cools, so don’t worry if it seems thin initially.
- Storage: Store the jam in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to two weeks. Alternatively, you can freeze it for longer storage.
- Variations: Experiment with different fruits or combinations of fruits to create unique flavors. You can also add spices like cinnamon or ginger for a flavor twist. Lemon juice and zest go great with strawberries. Or try a savory spin by using black pepper or basil.
- Gift Idea: Homemade jam makes a thoughtful gift. Consider packaging it in decorative jars and adding a personalized label.
